Mate: An Unconventional Drink from South America

An atypical beverage from South America, mate is experiencing a surge in popularity in Europe. It’s easy to see why: mate has all the qualities needed to stand alongside tea and coffee. Traditionally, this hot drink is especially known for its energizing properties. Discover this infusion, also known as the “Jesuit’s Tea,” and explore a new world of flavors with our selection.

Mate: An Ancient and Unique Drink

In Europe, mate is currently experiencing a true resurgence. Many celebrities, including Barack Obama, Gisele Bündchen, and Cristiano Ronaldo, have embraced this ancient and distinctly unique “Jesuit’s Tea.”

Traditionally, mate hails from South America, specifically from Uruguay, Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. In Brazil, it is used by the Guarani people for its stimulating properties—men, for example, drink it to prepare their bodies for the long marches required during transhumance.

Mate was introduced to Europe in the 16th century, where it was studied by the Jesuits. The hot beverage spread worldwide, sometimes becoming part of intricate rituals. In Lebanon, for instance, the gourd used to drink mate must be passed hand to hand in a counterclockwise direction.

Discover Betjeman & Barton’s Mate

Mate comes from a unique plant: Ilex paraguariensis (wild holly), a shrub that can grow up to 20 meters tall and is mainly found in the border regions of Paraguay, Brazil, and Argentina. The term "mate" refers to the Guarani expression “caa maté”: caa refers to the plant, and maté refers to the container used to infuse it.

Mate comes in several versions: it can be green, roasted, or aged. In Europe, the most commonly consumed variety is green mate. Aged mate has a very bitter taste, so green mate, which is more balanced, vegetal, and fresh, is preferred. Roasted mate, on the other hand, has rounded notes similar to those of coffee.

It is important to note that although mate is also known as the “Jesuit’s Tea,” it is not a variety of tea! Mate and tea may look similar, but they come from very different plants. Therefore, the mate we invite you to discover through our selection can be considered an herbal infusion: it is, of course, a mate originating from Brazil, made from the famous wild holly traditionally used by Indigenous peoples. The mate we have selected offers a cup with a slightly bitter taste and subtle smoky notes.

How to Enjoy Your Betjeman & Barton Mate

To enjoy your Betjeman & Barton mate, follow our preparation guidelines. They will help you choose the right steeping time and ensure the best tasting experience.