About

Mate is a traditional south american herbal infusion. It's known for its high caffeine and "special" way of being served.

Yerba Mate infusion -- 8/10

The traditional way to drink it. It is a special and definetly an acquired taste, but a very nice taste nontheless. The high caffeine makes it a viable coffee replacement. It can be a little challenging to prepare for the first time, but gets easier over time. The intensity of the mate leaves make it possible to drink multiple infusions without having to add new yerba mate.

Mate iced tea -- 9/10

A popular drink in german queer circles, the most popular brands being Club Mate and Mio Mio Mate. Depending on the brand they vary in sweetness - I found Mio Mio Mate to be sweeter, with Club Mate having a more unique aftertaste - but both are very pleasant to drink. Just like the Yerba Mate infusion Mate iced tea contains a good amount of caffeine, also making it a good coffee replacement, especially in hot summer days.

Mate Cigarettes -- 7/10

Although a rather unorthodox way of consuming Mate, since Yerba Mate is just a dried plant, it can be smoked just like tobacco. The taste of Mate remains very noticeable, although it's not very pungent. Mate however does not smoke that well, the cigarette has to be reignited multiple times and the ash does not hold on, causing a big mess.

Total -- 8/10