Brazilian mate, derived from the Yerba Mate plant native to South America, is an herbal tea well-loved for its robust and refreshing qualities. Yerba mate is made by steeping the dried leaves and twigs of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. In Brazil, it is specifically referred to as "chimarrão".
The scent profile of Brazilian mate is complex and invigorating. It features a rich, earthy aroma with herbal notes that can remind one of freshly cut grass or green leaves. Additionally, there are subtle woody and smoky undertones which are brought out more prominently through the drying process involving smoke. Mate also has a slight astringent quality reminiscent of some types of green tea.
Brazilian mate is distinctively more robust compared to other types of mate due to the specific cut of the leaves and the traditional preparation methods. This gives it a vibrant, somewhat bitter flavor that can be an acquired taste. Often, it's enjoyed in a social setting, reflecting the communal culture of Brazil.