How to choose a glass for iced matcha and lattes

Why a dedicated glass?

For hot matcha, a bowl is ideal. For iced lattes, a clear glass shows the layers, keeps the drink cold with a lid and lets you sip through a straw without disturbing the foam. It is the accessory many people add first to a set, as shown in our guide to building a matcha ritual.

Borosilicate vs ordinary glass

Borosilicate glass handles temperature changes much better. You can pour a warm whisked matcha shot over ice without risking a crack, and it is lighter and more transparent. For a daily matcha glass, it is the material to look for.

Choosing the capacity

• 350–400 ml: a classic iced latte with ice — the everyday size.
• 450–500 ml: big summer drinks, extra ice or a double shot.
• Under 300 ml: better for a hot latte or a short iced drink.

Lid and straw

A lid keeps ice from melting too fast, protects the drink from dust and makes it easier to carry. A wide straw (glass or bamboo) lets the foam and milk come up together. Bamboo lids add warmth to the look; glass straws are easiest to keep spotless.

Shape

Straight, slightly wide glasses are easiest to clean and show the layers best. Decorative shapes, such as a bow or a "can" glass, are lovely for a gift or a photo — just check that a brush reaches the bottom.

Cleaning

Rinse straight after use; matcha leaves a film if it dries. Use a straw brush for straws. Most borosilicate glasses are dishwasher-safe; bamboo lids should be washed by hand and dried quickly.

Making the drink

Whisk a concentrated shot in a bowl or with an electric whisk, pour it slowly over milk and ice, and watch it fall. The full recipe is in iced matcha latte with a matcha glass.

Our glasses

The iced matcha glass with bamboo lid and straw, the 380 ml borosilicate cup and the 500 ml bow tumbler are all in the matcha glass collection.