Introducing the Latest Premium Matcha Ice Cream by Lotte, Available Nationwide!

Experience the Luxury of Premium Matcha Ice Cream

Lotte Co., Ltd. from Shinjuku, Tokyo, is thrilled to announce the launch of a brand new delight: the "Sōzai Rich Matcha (Sōzai Koi Aji Matcha)" ice cream, available across Japan starting January 26, 2026. This is the third installment of their luxurious ice cream series, which previously introduced the "Sōzai Rich Vanilla" in November and the "Sōzai Rich Pudding" in December.

The Sōzai Rich Matcha ice cream brings a whole new experience with its premium quality, presenting a delectable blend of two distinct first-harvest matchas. This product stands out with the incorporation of micro ice, allowing for a smooth melting sensation and a refreshing aftertaste that is truly satisfying. Unlike typical ice creams, this creation takes the beloved "Sō" brand a notch higher into the realm of premium desserts.

One of the highlights of this new treat is its rich, vibrant green color, reminiscent of early spring, further enhanced by high-quality Japanese ingredients. The ice cream itself is crafted using a perfectly balanced first-harvest matcha known for its gentle bitterness and savory notes, providing a fresh taste in every bite. Meanwhile, the sauce is made with a distinctively fragrant first-harvest matcha, enriching the overall flavor profile. This dual-layered approach guarantees that each scoop delivers an exciting experience with every mouthful.

Quality Highlights

1. Rich Flavor: The ice cream and sauce are filled with an indulgent taste derived from first-harvest matcha.
2. Distinct Experiences: Each component showcases different first-harvest matchas for a delightful tasting experience.

Product Features

Upon tasting, you will immediately sense the satisfying flavor of the ice cream, perfectly complemented by the refreshing touch left behind by the micro ice. This texture creates an enjoyable experience while savoring each scoop. The intention behind the product is to offer something beyond ordinary ice cream, moving up to a milk ice cream grade that emphasizes indulgence and flavor.

Launch Details

- Product Name: Sōzai Rich Matcha
- Release Date: January 26, 2026
- Availability: Nationwide
- Type: Ice Milk
- Content: 185ml
- Suggested Retail Price: 248 yen (tax included)

Insights from the Development Team

We sat down with Atsushi Nakau, a researcher at the Central Research Institute, to delve into the creation process of this lavish series. The inspiration for the Rich Matcha series emerged from the desire to explore the possibilities of combining luxurious, rich flavors with a refreshing finish. Achieving this harmony between heaviness and lightness posed significant challenges. Through a meticulous selection of ingredients and careful formulation, we have successfully married these two contrasting tastes.

The focus on first-harvest matcha in our product is a testament to our commitment to quality. By utilizing a matcha that balances bitterness and umami in the ice cream part, we have crafted a dessert that embraces the richness while maintaining a refreshing aftertaste. The sauce, featuring an aromatic profile from first-harvest matcha, allows ice cream enthusiasts and matcha lovers alike to revel in this extraordinary flavor.

With this product, we are confident that both longtime fans of the Sō brand and new matcha aficionados will discover unparalleled enjoyment. Let the delightful duality of these matchas elevate your ice cream experience to the next level!