The bombilla and the gourd are the essential Yerba Mate accessories for enjoying this drink from South America. Yerba Mate, also known as Jesuits' tea or Brazilian tea, is an herbal infusion made from the leaves of the yerba maté plant. Bombillas come in a wide variety of styles, from stainless steel and alpaca to surgical steel and wood. Here are our tips for choosing the right one.
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The different types of bombilla for Yerba Mate
The Guaraní people were at the origin of ground yerba maté, particularly in Brazil. They used a hollow reed as a straw to drink mate, unlabelled but undeniably natural. Bothered by leaf residue, they improvised the first filter system, and the idea of the bombilla was born.
In recent years, yerba maté has grown in popularity across Europe, with a wide range of products and accessories now available. Here is how to choose the right bombilla to fully appreciate the flavour of your mate.
Which bombilla shape suits your mate ritual?
Among the different bombilla styles, curved models tend to be more comfortable than straight ones when drinking mate. The filter is key, as it directly determines the quality of your mate experience.
The classic slotted filter is the simplest design, though it has evolved over time. Almond-shaped models fit snugly against the inside of the gourd for excellent filtration. Spring-filter bombillas allow a smooth, steady flow and stay clean longer. They are ideal for traditional yerba maté, even the finely ground varieties like Maté Intense.
Once the bombilla is in place, it is important not to move it. Keeping it still allows the yerba maté to infuse properly while the solid particles settle at the bottom of the gourd.
Steel, stainless steel, wood: the material of your bombilla matters
Stainless steel bombillas (inox) and alpaca models are the most popular choices. Surgical steel and wood options are also available. The quality of your bombilla is essential for a truly enjoyable mate.
Make sure your bombilla does not affect the taste of your drink or release any harmful substances. It should also be designed to protect your lips from heat, and its filter should reliably hold back solid particles.
Cleaning your bombilla
A well-maintained mate straw will serve you for years. At the very least, rinse your bombilla with hot water after each use. For a deeper clean, soak it for 30 minutes in boiling water with a pinch of bicarbonate of soda. A fine cleaning brush will help remove any buildup inside the tube. Look for a model with a removable filter for easy maintenance.
Bombilla, gourd, organic yerba maté: the full world of mate
Bombillas are available at every price point. You can also opt for a mate gift set or a starter kit to begin your yerba maté journey. Mate can also be enjoyed in a cup, a flask or a thermos.
For the best experience, mate calls for its own dedicated accessories: a gourd, a bombilla, and a fine brush, all available in our range. Browse our selection, including our organic yerba maté collection.
Should you choose to order from us, your purchase will be dispatched promptly and with care.
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Browse our range of organic yerba maté loose-leaf: green maté, traditional maté, and fruity blends (orange, pomegranate, mango-guava). Certified organic farming, delivery across mainland France.
