Erva Mate: What is it, how do you drink it, and why is it Brazil's national drink?

Erva Mate is more than just a drink – it is a ritual, a tradition, and a piece of the Brazilian soul. In Southern Brazil, the mate circle is as much a part of daily life as the morning coffee is in Germany. But what exactly is Erva Mate, how do you drink it properly – and why is it considered Brazil’s national drink?

What is Erva Mate?

Erva Mate (Ilex paraguariensis) is a plant from the holly family that grows in the subtropical forests of South America – primarily in Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay. The leaves are dried, ground, and prepared as an infusion. Erva Mate contains caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline – substances that are also found in coffee, tea, and cocoa.

Mate in Brazil – Chimarrão and Terêrê

In Brazil, there are two main ways to enjoy mate:

• Chimarrão (hot): The classic form in Southern Brazil – especially in Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina, and Paraná. Hot water (70–80 °C, never boiling) is poured over the Erva Mate in the cuia. Chimarrão is a social ritual: the cuia is passed around and shared.
• Terêrê (cold): The Paraguayan variant, which is also popular in Brazil – infused with ice-cold water or fruit juice. Refreshing, especially in summer.

What do you need for drinking mate?

• Erva Mate: The dried, ground mate herb – available in various grinds and roasts.
• Cuia: The traditional drinking vessel made from a dried gourd. Nowadays, they are also made of wood, ceramic, or stainless steel.
• Bombilla: A metal straw with a filter at the end that keeps the herb out.
• Termo (Thermos flask): For hot water on the go – essential for a true Gaúcho.

How do you prepare mate correctly?

1. Fill the cuia about two-thirds full with Erva Mate.
2. Tilt the cuia slightly and push the Erva Mate to one side.
3. Pour a little lukewarm water onto the lower, empty side – the herb will absorb it and form a barrier.
4. Insert the bombilla into the empty side – never press it into the dry herb.
5. Top up with hot water (70–80 °C) and enjoy.
6. Refill again and again – good Erva Mate lasts for many infusions.

Why is mate considered Brazil’s national drink?

Mate has officially been Brazil's national drink since 2019 – by law. But its significance goes far beyond a legal designation: mate is identity, community, and hospitality. In Rio Grande do Sul – the heart of Gaúcho culture – chimarrão is as natural as a handshake when greeting someone. If you visit a Gaúcho, you will be offered mate first.

Mate vs. coffee – what is the difference?

• Caffeine: Like coffee, mate contains natural caffeine.
• Taste: Mate is herbal, slightly bitter, and earthy – an acquired taste, but unique.
• Ritual: You drink coffee alone. You share mate – the cuia is passed around.

More about Brazilian coffee and its special features: Brazilian coffee vs. espresso.

Erva Mate at Vicios Brasileiros

Discover our selection of Brazilian coffee & tea – including authentic Erva Mate for genuine chimarrão enjoyment at home, such as Erva Mate Tradicional from Barão or the organic variant, Erva Mate Orgânica.

Cover image: AI-generated image for illustration purposes.