Country of Origin: Brazil

Cup Characteristics: Pleasant herbal notes. Has pleasingly astringent, smooth flavor with hints of green tea. Rich in mateine, which is recognized as a mild stimulant.

Information: Yerba Matte is called “The drink of the gods” by many of the indigenous people of South America who have brewed it for centuries. In recent years, the popularity of Yerba Matte has finally begun to take hold around the world as an alternative to tea and coffee. This Matte has a pleasingly astringent, smooth, roasty character. It makes a perfect pick me up in the morning since it contains more caffeine than coffee or tea, and is also rich in Vitamin C and other naturally occurring nutrients and antioxidants. It is said in parts of South America “when one offers Matte, he offers friendship.”

Brewing method: A regular teapot or a French press are both perfect for brewing Matte. Add a tablespoon or two of loose Matte per 3-cup teapot add hot water (180ºF), and let steep for about 3-5 minutes. Then, simply strain, plunge the press, or remove your infuser, and serve. Astringency will depend on the amount of Matte used so you may wish to experiment a little.

Iced Yerba Matte: As with all iced teas, pour over a tall glass of ice. Add sweetener according to taste.