This was my first matcha experience, so I didn't want to buy very expensive matcha. This match is not terrible. It is well packaged, and when fresh, is a deep dark green color. The fact it is culinary grade and is taken from the lower parts of the tea branch, you can expect bitterness and slight fishy/seaweed flavor if you drink it plain. I found that it was much more palatable if I added a few teaspoons of organic honey. I'm sure if you intend to use it in smoothies, baking or latte it would be ok. I will say that at one teaspoon doses, my wife got total relief from arthritis pain and swelling in her hands - we have both stopped drinking coffee after realizing that this tea is truly medicinal and the energy boost lasts most of the day. I will also say that we upgraded to a ceremonial grade matcha for drinking and now use this brand for baking etc. It is a great product for baking etc., but I would advise against it if you want a great drinking tea without having to add sweetener or other additives to make it tolerable. Premium or ceremonial grade is fantastic for that.