Yerba Mate: South America's Favourite Drink, Now in Hobart
If you've spent any time around Argentines, Uruguayans, or Brazilians, you've almost certainly seen someone walking around with a gourd in one hand and a thermos in the other. That's mate — and it's not just a drink. It's a ritual, a social tradition, and for millions of people across South America, an essential part of daily life.
At Sabor Austral Market, we carry a carefully selected range of yerba mate brands so you can enjoy an authentic experience right here in Hobart — whether you're a lifelong mate drinker or just getting started.
What Is Yerba Mate?
Yerba mate is an herbal drink made from the dried leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant, native to South America. It's prepared by steeping the leaves in hot water inside a hollow gourd (called a mate) and drinking through a metal straw with a filter at the bottom (called a bombilla).
The flavour is earthy, slightly bitter, and deeply aromatic — somewhere between green tea and coffee, but with its own distinct character. It contains caffeine as well as other natural compounds that provide a smooth, sustained energy boost without the jitteriness of coffee.
In Argentina and Uruguay, mate is consumed throughout the day — at breakfast, at work, on walks, and especially shared with friends and family. Passing a mate around a circle of people is one of the most genuine expressions of hospitality in Argentine culture.
Our Yerba Mate Selection
Canarias
One of the most popular yerba mate brands in Uruguay, Canarias has a loyal following across the Río de la Plata region. It's known for its smooth, well-balanced flavour with a fine cut that brews easily and consistently. A great all-rounder and an excellent starting point if you're new to mate.
Baldo
Baldo is a traditional Argentine yerba with a robust, full-bodied flavour. It has a coarser cut and a strong, earthy taste that seasoned mate drinkers love. If you like your mate with character and depth, Baldo delivers every time.
Andresito
A classic from the Misiones province in northeast Argentina — the heart of yerba mate country. Andresito is known for its clean, natural flavour and consistent quality. It's a straightforward, no-frills yerba that does exactly what it's supposed to do.
Andresito Especial
The premium version of Andresito. The Especial blend is more refined, with a smoother finish and a more complex flavour profile. If you enjoy the Andresito but want something a little more polished for your daily mate, this is the upgrade worth making.
Playadito
Another Misiones classic, Playadito is widely loved for its smooth texture and mild, approachable bitterness. It's one of the most balanced yerbas on the market — not too strong, not too light — making it ideal for long mate sessions throughout the day.
Verdeflor Hierbas Serranas
Something a little different. Verdeflor Hierbas Serranas is a blended yerba that combines traditional mate with a selection of mountain herbs, giving it a distinctly aromatic and refreshing character. It's lighter on the bitterness and perfect for those who enjoy a more herbal, nuanced cup. A wonderful option for anyone transitioning from herbal teas to mate.
Rosamonte Especial
Rosamonte is one of Argentina's most iconic yerba mate brands, produced in the Misiones province since 1936. The Especial blend is aged and carefully processed to deliver a bold, intense flavour with a long finish. It's a favourite among serious mate drinkers who want a strong, traditional experience. Rich, powerful, and unmistakably Argentine.
Cósmico
Cósmico is a younger, more contemporary brand that has built a strong following for its quality and approachable style. It strikes a nice balance between boldness and smoothness, making it a versatile choice for any time of day. A great option if you want something reliable and modern without sacrificing authenticity.
How to Prepare Mate
- Fill your gourd about two-thirds full with yerba mate.
- Cover the opening with your hand, turn the gourd upside down and shake gently to bring the fine powder to the top.
- Tilt the gourd at an angle and insert the bombilla into the lower side.
- Pour hot water (around 75-80°C — never boiling) slowly into the lower side of the gourd.
- Drink through the bombilla and refill with hot water as needed.
The same yerba can be reused for multiple rounds — a good mate session can last an hour or more.
Not Sure Where to Start?
If you're new to mate, we recommend starting with Canarias or Playadito for their smooth, approachable flavour. If you're a seasoned mate drinker looking for something bold and traditional, Rosamonte Especial or Baldo are excellent choices. And if you want something a little different, Verdeflor Hierbas Serranas is worth exploring.
All eight varieties are available now at Sabor Austral Market.