Do you want an alternative to your daily cup of coffee? Now you can sip on a brew that not only wakes you up but also suppresses your hunger – Yerba mate tea. It contains caffeine, healthy nutrients, and antioxidants. I handpicked the 10 best yerba mate tea brands in 2023 to offer you the best solution for your search for a wholesome, natural energy source.
I’m a huge fan of yerba mate, and has been my caffeine source for a long time. The brands you’ll see here I tried myself, and I have a lot of trust in them. I’m sure there will be a yerba mate brand for everyone, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yerba mate drinker.
So keep reading and find the perfect yerba mate tea suited for your needs.
What Are The Best Yerba Mate Brands?
| Number | Product Name | Price per 1kg (2.2lb) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cruz De Malta | $12 | Eco-Friendly Packaging and Beginner-Friendly option | Not suitable for those looking for a strong taste |
| 2 | Guayaki Yerba Mate | $22.84 | Organic and diverse Offerings, convenient tea bags, and tea cans | A bit pricey, less traditional |
| 3 | Canarias Yerba Mate | $17.49 | Pure Blend and Unique Origin | Intense flavor may be too much for beginners |
| 4 | Rosamonte | $12.60 | Legacy Brand and Unique Blend | Finer grind may differ from traditional blends |
| 5 | CBSe | $15 | Flavored options and Beginner-friendly | Not for purists |
| 6 | Taragui | $13.15 | Consistent Quality and Two Distinct Flavors | Might not suit everybody |
| 7 | La Rubia | $23.49 | Diverse Flavor Profile and Creamy texture | Complexity may be overwhelming for beginners |
| 8 | Playadito Yerba Mate | $14.30 | Full-bodied Experience and Versatile Brewing | May not offer the intensity some want |
| 9 | Ximango Yerba Mate | $19.99 | Focusing more on the powder and stems rather than leaves | Can be a bit challenging for beginners |
| 10 | Ecoteas Unsmoked Yerba Mate | $39.98 | Eco-Friendly | Most expensive option |
1. Cruz De Malta
Overview
Cruz De Malta is one of the most famous yerba mate brands. It’s the first Yerba Mate I ever tried, and this is the one that got me hooked on this beautiful brew. It’s the kind of brand that’s hard to dislike. It’s the perfect introduction to mate.
Many find Mate’s taste a bit too strong, but Cruz De Malta is more of a gentler, more approachable flavor. It’s smooth, slightly sweet, and doesn’t shock your taste buds like some others might do. Plus, with its Argentinian roots and big leaves, you won’t face any hassle brewing it.
Key Benefits
- Eco-Friendly Packaging: “Sin capas plasticas” indicates no plastic used in the packaging.
- Origin: Made in Argentina and follows traditional methods.
- Drying Process: The mate leaves undergo a drying process involving sun, gas heat, and wood heat.
- Convenient for Beginners: The large stems and moderate dust make it easy for newcomers to prepare
- “Elaborada con palos”: Sticking to the traditional inclusion of stems from the leaves
Pricing
The 1kg pack costs 12 USD, which is an affordable price for the quality it offers.
My Personal Opinion
For anyone new to yerba mate, Cruz De Malta is a fantastic starting option. Its gentle flavor is a warm introduction to mate. It doesn’t have the harshness some other brands might give you. The traditional “con palos” approach shouldn’t be misunderstood as worse quality. It actually adds a distinctive woody flavor note to your mate.
While some might not be fans of this traditional method, I like the authenticity and think you should try the original mate to get a feel for the tradition. If you’re curious about Yerba Mate and don’t know where to start, you really can’t go wrong with this brand.
2. Guayaki Yerba Mate
Overview
Unlike Cruz de Malta, Guayaki is less traditional and more modern. In recent years I’ve seen this mate stock up the shelves in different supermarkets. This brand intends to make yerba mate appealing to Western markets.
Read here for the full Guayaki Yerba Mate Review
Key Benefits
- Organic and Sustainable: Organic yerba mate leaves, making sure that every tea bag or loose leaf offers the authentic mate experience without chemicals.
- Diverse Offerings: Whether you want the convenience of yerba mate tea bags, the traditional loose leaves, or the Guayaki yerba mate flavored cans, Guayaki has you covered.
- Flavor: Guayaki’s Yerba Mate has an earthy and mellow taste. It has a slightly smoky flavor and a hint of robustness without being overwhelming. This makes it a favorite for traditional mate drinkers and newcomers.
Pricing
The price of 75 tea bags is USD 22.84.
My Personal Opinion
I must admit that I didn’t like Guayaki Yerba Mate at the beginning. It’s less traditional and offers tea bags and cans with many different fruity flavors. I thought it was going too far away from its origins.
But this brand makes sense for the Western market. It has a balanced flavor that isn’t too intense, making it a great choice for those new to the world of yerba mate.
Also, they commit to organic and gluten-free ingredients, which I find makes it very easy on my stomach.
So if tradition doesn’t concern you, and you want an easy-going, cool-looking, awesome-tasting yerba mate, this is the one to go for.
Edit: Traditional Mate Drinkers, please don’t hate me! I’ve been drinking the Guayaki Tea Cans all summer, and I fell in love. Cold Brewed Mate with different fruity flavors – it’s just too amazing to ignore…(Bluephoria is my favourite)
3. Canarias Yerba Mate
Overview
Away from the Western market, back to tradition: Made in southern Brazil, Canarias has made a name as one of the great yerba mate teas for all mate drinkers, not just for the locals. With a distinctive, robust flavor, it’s no surprise that Canarias holds such a high spot among yerba mate brands.
It has an earthy taste with a subtle flavor of dark chocolate and nuts. I love it, and it can definitely compete in the sea of the popular Argentinian mate teas.
Key Benefits
- Pure Blend: Canarias is a “sin palo” blend, which means you’re getting only the leaves without stems. This makes sure you get a more concentrated flavor.
- Unique Origin: Even though most associate yerba mate with Argentina, Canarias’s Brazilian roots give it a bright and fruity flavor, making it different.
- Flavor Profile: If you’re in the mood for a mate drink that has a dry and smoky flavor profile with a mellow energy boost, this is your pick.
- Best for Seasoned Drinkers: Canarias has a very potent flavor profile – therefore, this one is suited for intermediate to advanced mate drinkers. However, if you’re an adventurous beginner, go for it!
Pricing
Offered at 1kg for 17.49 USD, Canarias is not just a flavor-packed choice but also a pocket-friendly one.
My Personal Opinion
Having tried many mate teas, I can say Canarias is special. It has a unique flavor that’s both earthy and nuanced with nice undertones. Definitely a brand to try down the line if you’re looking for something new.
However, its high dust content requires a traditional bombilla with a fine-grain filter to appreciate the blend without graininess fully. It has a strong concentrated taste so it might be too much for some! But for those of you wanting the authentic yerba mate experience, Canarias is a must-try.
So I wouldn’t buy this one for your first yerba mate to try, but if you’re experienced, please give this one a chance. And let me know how you liked it!
4. Rosamonte
Overview
Rosamonte is a legacy brand. Its roots go back to 1966. Starting as a family business in Argentina, only dedicated to yerba mate, the brand has since became one of the most famous mate brands.
If you are looking for authenticity and tradition, Rosamonte is for you.
Key Benefits
- Blend: The blend is “con palos,” which means it includes stems. However, Rosamonte contains fewer stems than most brands, and the grind is finer, providing a different drinking experience.
- Origin: Made in Argentina, the brand carries the rich legacy of traditional yerba mate preparation.
- Flavor Profile: Rosamonte’s blend undergoes a drying and slightly smokey process, giving it a mild and slightly bitter flavor similar to green tea. Still, it is not as potent as the fully smoked blends, such as Canaris.
Price
The Rosamonte yerba mate costs 12.60 USD per 1kg.
My Personal Opinion
Rosamonte offers a flavor that stands out in the world of yerba mate. The bitterness might be a bit much for some, especially those new to yerba mate. Also, you cannot reseal the package and the powdered leaf dust can make the brewing process messy. Trust me, I know…
However, traditionalists and experienced mate drinkers shouldn’t be concerned by this since this mate offers unique taste and authenticity. Rosamonte is for those of you who appreciate the depths of yerba mate flavors and are looking for a traditional, memorable, and made-in-Argentina yerba mate brew.
5. CBSe
Overview
For those wandering in the world of yerba mate, you might’ve stumbled upon the more popular yerba mate brands. But let me tell you, when it comes to flavored yerba mate, CBSe is where it’s at. It offers a honey flavor to make the mate more sweet and less bitter.
Key Benefits
- Flavored Yerba Mate: CBSe moves away from the traditional yerba mate taste. Flavored yerba mate might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s worth a try.
- Beginner-friendly: The honey flavor softens the usual bitterness of yerba mate, making it an ideal for those new to the bitterness of mate.
- Maintains Authenticity: Despite the added flavor, CBSe doesn’t overshadow the natural yerba mate experience. The honey and the classic yerba mate come together harmoniously.
- Perfect for a Change: For those regular yerba mate drinkers who are accustomed to milder teas, this can be a pleasant change.
Pricing
You can get two 500g packages for 15 USD.
My Personal Opinion
The subtle sweetness of honey and the distinct yerba mate flavor make this an amazing drink. It was different, definitely not as bitter as usual. It’s flavored, similar to Guayaki, but it still has a more traditional taste than Guayaki.
Now, is it my everyday go-to? Not really. But every once in a while, when I’m in the mood for something other than my regular yerba mate, CBSe is what I reach for. And for anyone new to the world of yerba mate? This might just be the best yerba mate for beginners.
Still, for beginners, it’s important to try the bitter mate teas first before deciding whether you want to have it sweeter. In case you don’t like the traditional mate taste, this one is the one to go for.
6. Taragui
Overview
Taragui is more than just another name in the world of yerba mate brands. This Argentinian marvel has carved out a space for itself, and not just among local yerba mate drinkers. Globally recognized, Taragui is known for its two famous varieties: Taragui red and Taragui blue.
Key Benefits
- Two Distinct Flavors: With the Taragui red having stems and the blue variant being processed to eliminate them, they offer two unique flavors. You choose: creamy, woody with a hint of bitterness from the stems, or the pure essence of mate leaves.
- Accessible Information: For those who find the Spanish language a barrier, Taragui breaks it down. Their English marketing is spot-on, explaining everything from health benefits to caffeine content.
- Made in Argentina: You get an authentic yerba mate experience. Taragui is one of the leading brands in Argentina.
- Well-developed Flavors: Their strategic drying and aging process has some of the best flavors in the market.
Pricing
If you’re setting out to discover the best yerba mate tea for your buck, Taragui offers its quality at 13.15 USD per 1kg. A decent price considering its brand name.
My Personal Opinion
Taragui is one of my favorites. While I appreciate the versatility it brings with its red and blue variants, there’s also a downside to it. When you see “con palos” on a package, it’s a guessing game about the percentage of stems included. I had packages full of stems and others with only little.
For a mate drinker who enjoys using a French press, more stems are ideal. But if you’re on the search for a traditional flavor, the blue, with its fine grind, is your pick. Though, it requires a bit of practice handling its dusty nature.
But all in all, whether you’re new to the mate drink or an old-timer, you should try Taragui.
7. La Rubia
Overview
La Rubia is a unique Paraguayan mate. While it has some similarities to Argentinian brands, there’s an undeniable distinction in its flavor.
Key Benefits
- Diverse Flavor Profile: Complexity is the hallmark of La Rubia. It contains fresh grass and hay, giving a mix of fruity sweetness, floral nuances, and a hint of dark chocolate. Also, a typical Paraguayan sour note, with bread-like and woody elements, completes this complex drink.
- Perfect Texture: Its creamy texture is ideal for any mate-drinking session. This tea is made for both the newbie and the experienced yerba mate drinker.
- Popularity: It’s ranked alongside favorites like Cruz De Malta, speaking volumes about its acceptance among yerba mate enthusiasts.
Pricing
The price is $24 per kg.
My Personal Opinion
The first time I tasted La Rubia, its earthy, soil-like bitterness caught me off guard. It’s rare to find a mate with this unique flavor.
From its robust flavors to its undeniable creamy consistency, there’s not a single thing I can point out as a flaw in La Rubia. In fact, for many, it might just become their favorite yerba mate brand.
Still, if you’re a beginner, try to go to other brands first. Then buy the La Rubia as a comparison, and you’ll know what I mean. It truly tastes different from other brands.
8. Playadito Yerba Mate
Overview
Playadito Yerba Mate introduces you to the traditional South American tea ritual. It’s made in Corrientes, Argentina. This brand brings an authentic yerba mate experience with a balanced flavor profile that makes it one of the best yerba mate brands for beginners.
Key Benefits
- Full-bodied Experience: Though it initially comes off as just another ‘con palo’ mate, Playadito Con Palo stands apart in its enduring taste. It has many flavors – honey, sugar cane, sweet tobacco, green tea notes, and roasted sunflower seeds.
- Tailored for Beginners: With its smooth flavor and minimal bitterness, it’s no wonder why many consider it the best yerba mate for beginners. Its natural sweetness is its highlight.
- Versatile Brewing: Whether you’re a traditionalist sipping it hot from a mate gourd or someone exploring cold brews, lattes, or French press preparations, this yerba mate is perfect for that.
Pricing
$14.30 for a 1kg pack.
My Personal Opinion
Its appearance might be deceptive – just another con palo blend, right? But every sip proved otherwise. The blend has a coarser cut, like the Rosamonte Tradicional, but it stands out in its sweetness.
It has a hint of bitterness. It’s like a well-made herbal tea with green tea elements and the richness of roasted sunflower seeds. The chopped stems might be a turn-off for some mate drinkers, but they add to the authenticity of the blend.
Go for this one if you want a traditional mate that’s suited for beginners. If you think other mates are too bitter and you don’t want to go for flavored mate – Playadito is for you.
9. Ximango Yerba Mate
Overview
Ximango is a journey into the heart of Brazil’s traditional chimarrao. Unlike your regular yerba mates, which are dominated by leaves, this blend has less leaves. It focuses more on fine neon-green dust and stems, promising a flavor and texture different from others.
Key Benefits
- Unique Composition: Ximango focuses more on the powder and stems, bringing about a different drinking experience than leaf-dominant yerbas.
- Refreshing Flavor: If Argentine yerbas’ standard earthy, warm essence isn’t your cup of tea, Ximango provides an aromatic alternative. It tastes fresh, herbaceous, and slightly salty. The subtleness of the flavor, combined with a nutty undertone, makes it very smooth.
- Buttery Smoothness: Among its many attributes, the buttery smooth texture of Ximango is a standout. It feels light and pleasing, especially for those who don’t like the boldness and bitterness of other mates.
Pricing
$19.99 for a 1kg pack.
My Personal Opinion
This Brazilian chimarrao is truly an underappreciated gem in the world of yerba mate. Its grassy and fresh notes are refreshing, unlike the warm comfort of Argentine mates.
While it may be a bit challenging for first-timers, with its fine dust and large stems, mastering the preparation becomes worth the effort once you taste the buttery smoothness.
A chimarrao like Ximango could be a game-changer for many, easing into the world of yerba mate. For anyone seeking something different than the traditional Argentinian Yerba Mate Teas, Ximango is an amazing choice.
10. Ecoteas Unsmoked Yerba Mate
Overview
Ecoteas Organic Unsmoked Yerba Mate is a testament to the brand’s commitment to environmentally conscious practices. Their company is known for its green initiatives. This quality yerba mate offers an unsmoked, purely organic experience to enthusiasts who lean towards a more natural brew.
Key Benefits
- Natural and Unprocessed: For those seeking a concentrated yerba mate, Ecoteas offers an organically grown and unsmoked product.
- Eco-Conscious Production: Partnering with an Argentine university and the Fair Trade development fund, the brand has a dedication to sustainability and community support.
- Convenient and High Quality: The mate comes free from stems and dust, making it suitable for both traditional bombilla use and modern brewing methods like a French press.
- Balanced Taste Profile: This product is balanced with its earthy essence, strengthened by robust and fruity notes. The managed bitterness makes sure it’s welcoming, even for newcomers to the world of mate.
Pricing
The price for a 454g (1lb) package is 19.99 USD. Therefore, it’s a bit pricier option.
My Personal Opinion
Ecoteas is not your typical yerba mate. It’s an eco-conscious brand’s attempt to redefine the mate experience. The organic and unsmoked attributes make it stand out, offering a distinct flavor that can be both familiar and new. While traditionalists find the deviation a bit too far from home, those accustomed to matcha or other green teas may find it intriguing.
The brand’s ethos is one of sustainability, minimal packaging waste, and certifications that stand testament to its quality and eco-friendly stance.
That said, this product does have its quirks. The unexpected powdery texture might throw some off, and the earthy taste, while loved by many, might not appeal to everyone.
If you’re on the hunt for a yerba mate that’s different, eco-friendly, and organic, then Ecoteas Organic Unsmoked is the brew for you.
What is Yerba Mate Tea?
Yerba Mate Tea, often referred to as mate, is a traditional South American tea made from dried leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. It’s native to regions of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay, and been consumed for centuries. Yerba mate is a mix of herbal, grassy notes and a subtle bitterness, offering a unique and distinct taste. It’s different than any other tea.
Yerba Mate is also about the experience. Many South Americans, especially Argentines and Uruguayans, partake in a communal ceremony of sharing mate from a hollowed gourd, sipping it through a metal straw called a “bombilla.”
This ritual fosters social connection, and there’s an art to brewing the perfect mate. The tea has many antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Moreover, its caffeine content provides a boost like coffee but without jitters. It’s for those of you looking for an energy drink without the side effects.
If you haven’t tasted Yerba Mate yet, you’re in for an authentic, cultural, and health-boosting experience. Whether you’re looking to dive into traditional mate ceremonies or explore a new tea flavor, Yerba Mate is definitely worth trying.
What Are The Health Benefits of Yerba Mate Teas?
- Rich in Nutrients: Yerba Mate contains many vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B, vitamin C, magnesium, potassium, and iron.
- Energy Boost without the Jitters: While it contains caffeine, drinkers (me included) say that yerba mate offers a more balanced and sustained energy boost, minus the anxiety and jittery feelings associated with coffee.
- Supports Weight Loss: Yerba Mate can help increase the rate of calorie burn and reduce appetite, helping you lose weight.
- Enhances Physical Performance: The caffeine in yerba mate can enhance muscle contractions and reduce fatigue, helping in better physical performance.
- Boosts Immune System: With its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, yerba mate strengthens your body’s defenses.
- Promotes Digestive Health: Yerba mate alleviates digestive issues and promotes a healthy gut.
- Rich in Antioxidants: It contains more antioxidants than green tea.
- Improves Mental Function: The compounds in yerba mate affect the neurotransmitters in the brain, enhancing memory, mood, and alertness.
- Potential Cardiovascular Benefits: Some studies suggest yerba mate improves cholesterol levels, promoting heart health.
- Social Bonding Experience: The communal act of sharing a mate gourd fosters social connections and strengthens bonds among friends and family.
- Cultural Insight: Drinking Yerba Mate offers a window into South American traditions and rituals.
While the benefits of Yerba Mate are many, it’s important to consume it in moderation and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any health conditions.
How We Conducted Our Research On The Best Yerba Mate Teas
To provide you with a trustworthy review of the best yerba mate products on the market, we did complete research on the best yerba mate teas on the market. Here’s a breakdown of our method:
- First Research: We scanned popular online retail platforms, blogs, and forums to create a list of recognized yerba mate brands.
- Pricing: Understanding that budget plays an important role, we compared the cost of each product to ensure good quality for money.
- Features: We analyzed the unique attributes of each yerba mate product: Taste, consistency (whether it’s loose leaf, powder, or tea bags), organic certification, and any special processing techniques
- User Reviews and Feedback: Real-world experiences provide valuable insights. We looked at many customer reviews to gather the pros and cons.
- Negatives: We identified shortcomings of each product, considering all user preferences and needs. This helped us determine for whom each product might be best suited.
- Brand Reputation: Established brands often have a track record of consistency and quality. We took into account the history, mission, and values of the producing companies.
- Sustainability and Ethical Practices: We checked for certifications and the environmental impact of each brand.
- Cultural and Traditional Authenticity: Given the cultural significance of yerba mate, we considered how true each product stayed to traditional methods and flavors.
- Sampling and Tasting: Where possible, we got our hands on the products for personal sampling to give an authentic first-hand review.
By combining these various steps, we aimed to provide a holistic view of each product, making sure we have a good understanding of the yerba mate market.
The Best Yerba Mate Teas in 2023: Final Words
Navigating the world of yerba mate can be daunting, especially with so many brands available. But by following this guide, you’re now well-equipped to choose the best yerba mate that suits your preferences. We put our experience into this Guide, providing you with insights into the 10 best yerba mate brands, preparation methods, and the unique qualities of each brand.
Whether you’re a newbie looking for the best yerba mate for beginners or an experienced yerba mate enthusiast, our recommendations are rooted in thorough research and genuine love for this traditional South American tea.
FAQs
How is traditional yerba mate prepared?
Traditional yerba mate involves using a hollowed-out gourd, filling it with yerba mate leaves, and pouring hot (but not boiling) water over it. A metal straw, or “bombilla,” is used to drink the infusion.
Check out our Guide on how to prepare mate tea for more guidance.
Why is yerba mate often compared to coffee or tea?
Yerba mate provides a caffeine kick similar to coffee and has a complex flavor profile like many herbal teas, bridging the gap between the two. It’s often used as an alternative and has fans all over the world.
Are there flavored yerba mate teas available?
Yes, different brands offer flavored yerba mate blends, adding elements like mint, lemon, or even tropical fruits for a unique taste. Check out the the brands on our list, brands like CBSe and Guayaki Yerba Mate also have flavored mate options.
How many tablespoons of yerba mate are recommended per cup?
Typically, 1 to 3 tablespoons of yerba mate are suggested for a standard cup of mate, but it varies based on your experience and personal preferences.
Can I brew yerba mate in regular tea bags?
While traditional preparation methods are popular, many brands, like ECOTEAS Unsmoked Yerba Mate and Guayaki Yerba Mate offer yerba mate tea bags for convenience.
How does the caffeine content of yerba mate compare to coffee?
Yerba mate typically contains less caffeine than coffee but more than most teas, making it a moderate energy drink.
Where is yerba mate native to?
Yerba mate is native to South America, particularly regions in Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, and Paraguay.
Can I reuse yerba mate leaves for multiple brews?
Yes, good mate leaves, like the ones you find in our list, can be brewed multiple times, with each brew revealing different flavor nuances.
What does traditional yerba mate taste like?
Traditional yerba mate has a unique flavor profile combining earthy, herbaceous, and bitter notes, which varies based on the brand you buy and how you prepare the tea.
Is it essential to use a mate straw or bombilla?
While a bombilla is the traditional way of consuming mate and helps filter out the leaves, you can enjoy yerba mate without it, especially using tea bags or a French press.
Do all yerba mate teas have the same energy-boosting effects?
Most yerba mates offer a natural energy boost, but the strength can vary based on the brand and how you prepare your mate.
