A Bombilla is a type of straw used for drinking Yerba Maté. They have a filter at the bottom of the straw to separate the leaves from the liquor. Maté is typically drunk in a Gourd through a Bombilla at social events. An almost ritualistic experience known as ‘pasando el mate’ (“passing the mate hand in hand”) is a common occurrence at these parties and gatherings.
But this Bombilla is just the beginning of your journey. You can also buy a Gourd and the finest quality Yerba Maté here at The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company. All of our Teas and Coffees, including Yerba Maté, are packed fresh to order.
What is Yerba Maté?
Yerba Maté is a Herbal Tea native to South America. It is one of only a handful of plants in the world that produces caffeine. This, of course, includes so-called “real” Tea, as well as Coffee.
This plant belongs to the Holy (Aquifoliaceae) family. Its botanical name is Ilex Paraguariensis. Yerba Maté can grow to heights of up to 15 metres, sprouting evergreen leaves, small fruit berries and greenish-white flowers.
When brewed, this Herbal Tea boasts notes reminiscent of smoked wood, tobacco and fine Green Tea. Connoisseurs often note its slightly astringent taste which can linger on the palate. Such is its popularity in South America that it’s the National Beverage of Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay.
Yerba Maté – A Personal History:
The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company have a close association with this renowned drink. One of our colleagues, Annabel, has fond memories of ‘pasando el mate’ with her grandfather, Walter Robbins.
Mr Robbins was a missionary in Salta, Argentina, who worked with the local Wichí people. He would share Yerba Maté with the Wichí, and eventually brought back his first-hand experiences (and the beverage itself!) to the UK. To this day, family gatherings consist of sitting out in the garden while enjoying a brewed cup of this delicious herb.
How To Drink Yerba Maté
Yerba Maté is an integral part of South American culture. Many countries across the continent consume this brew in a cup called a Gourd and use a straw called a Bombilla. Indeed, by choosing this very Bombilla Yerba Maté Straw, you are choosing to uphold tradition.
Enjoying a cup of this Tea should be a communal experience. Consider passing it around from guest to guest to build ties and establish new friendships. This is how many South Americans see drinking Yerba Maté. We hope that you do, too, starting with this Bombilla Yerba Maté Straw.
Measurements: 18cm long.
Purchase this item and get 
