How is Matcha Produced? #QoW

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

How is Matcha produced?

Matcha is made from tea-leaves that have been grown in the shade. The harvesting process starts when the bushes are covered to ensure they are protected from direct sunlight. This encourages the leaves to produce an increased amount of chlorophyll, which turns them a darker green in colour. They also produce amino acids at this stage; notably l-theanine which helps to enhance mood and aid concentration).

After harvesting, the leaves are laid out to dry before being ground into the fine, green powder we know as matcha. 

How is this different to green tea? Matcha is made using the entire tea leaf and you consume everything. Green tea is merely just steeped using the leaves.