---
title: "Encha: Direct Organic Uji Importer Since 2014"
description: "Encha offers organic first-harvest ceremonial and latte matcha from Uji, with delicate grassy notes and smooth umami finishes."
image: "https://best-matcha.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Encha-logo-full.svg"
---
# Encha: Direct Organic Uji Importer Since 2014

> Encha offers organic first-harvest ceremonial and latte matcha from Uji, with delicate grassy notes and smooth umami finishes.

Source: https://best-matcha.com/shop/encha
Created: 2025-07-05T18:14:38+00:00
Modified: 2026-08-05T13:42:25+00:00
Author: Emilie Schol

**Encha** brings you the purest expression of Japanese matcha, sourced directly from organic farms in the Uji mountains outside Kyoto. Founded in 2014 by Dr. Li Gong, a Stanford Ph.D. who left his Silicon Valley VP position after experiencing what he calls “Zenergy”—the unprecedented calm focus from authentic organic matcha—the brand exists to make *premium organic matcha accessible and affordable*.

### Direct Farm Partnerships in Japan’s Tea Capital

Dr. Gong’s journey began with a research quest through Japan and eastern China in 2014. After tasting matcha from an organic farm in Uji, he immediately recognized something different. The farm uses traditional cultivation methods perfected over centuries, including three-week shade growth to boost theanine production and complete removal of stems before grinding.

**Encha** maintains exclusive relationships with these Uji farms, ensuring complete visibility into every step of production. The matcha plants grow in mountain ridges where natural barriers prevent pesticide overflow from conventional fields—a requirement for true organic certification.

### Organic-Only Philosophy

Every **Encha matcha** product carries *USDA organic certification*, non-GMO verification, and comes from first harvest (ichibancha) leaves—the highest quality available. The brand’s commitment stems from Dr. Gong’s belief that “intrinsic value doesn’t require extrinsic fanfare.” This philosophy translates to transparent sourcing, educational support, and products free from synthetic fertilizers or pesticides.

The farmers **Encha** partners with switched to organic methods primarily to protect their own health. Their patience and daily soil care produce matcha with a delicate, pleasant grassy note that reflects genuine spring freshness—not the flat taste that comes from chemical enhancement.

### Ceremonial and Latte Grade Options

**Encha** offers multiple matcha grades to serve different needs:

- **Ceremonial grade** for traditional tea preparation and mindful drinking

- **Latte grade** for beverages and smoothies

- **Culinary grade** for cooking and baking applications

Each grade maintains the same *organic integrity and direct farm sourcing* that defines the brand. Whether you’re whisking a traditional bowl or blending a morning latte, you’re experiencing matcha grown with meticulous care in soil nurtured through natural fertilization—the way it’s been done for generations in Uji’s legendary tea fields.

---

## Site identity

- Organization: Best Matcha (Emilie Schol)
- Description: Best Matcha is a specialized marketplace and educational platform for comparing Japanese matcha brands, products, grades, prices, and preparation guidance. It connects tea enthusiasts with producers and provides source-conscious guides for making informed choices.
- Website: https://best-matcha.com


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His transition from Silicon Valley's high-stress environment to matcha cultivation was driven by discovering how matcha provided focused energy without the anxiety-inducing effects he experienced with coffee.This personal experience led him to establish rigorous third-party testing protocols, including lead testing with levels kept below 0.5 ppm (the most stringent California Proposition 65 limit). His analytical approach also ensures their granite stone mills operate at precisely 20-40 RPM to prevent overheating and preserve delicate nutrients."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Why does Encha recommend plant-based milks specifically for their Latte Grade matcha?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Encha specifically recommends almond, coconut, or soy milk for their Latte Grade matcha because dairy milk can interfere with the absorption of antioxidant catechins found in matcha. 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This specific timing is calibrated to maximize L-theanine (amino acid for calming effects) and chlorophyll production while reducing catechins that contribute to bitterness.The shading process directly transforms the tea leaves' chemical composition, resulting in Encha's signature vibrant green color and the smooth, umami-rich flavor profile that characterizes both their Ceremonial and Latte grades. This traditional method, combined with Uji's unique microclimate of high humidity and frequent fog, creates the distinctive taste that inspired Li Gong's original transformation from coffee to matcha."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Can I visit Encha's organic farm in Uji, Japan where their matcha is grown?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"While Encha sources directly from their dedicated organic farm in Uji, Japan, the research doesn't indicate public farm tours or visits are available. 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