Visiting Mendoza, Argentina’s wine capital, is already a feast for the senses. But if you really want to experience Argentina beyond the vineyards, there’s one thing you have to try: mate. No, not the casual British “cuppa tea.” We’re talking about the deeply rooted cultural experience that is drinking mate (pronounced mah-teh).

From the way it’s prepared to how it’s shared (spoiler: you will be sharing), mate is more than just a drink—it’s an experience and a symbol of Argentine hospitality and friendship.

The Ritual of Drinking Mate

Unlike coffee, mate is not something you guzzle solo in the morning to wake up. Drinking mate is a social event. It’s often enjoyed with friends or family, and there’s a whole ritual around how to serve it.

Here’s how it goes:

1. The Server (Cebador): One person acts as the cebador, or server. They prepare the mate and take the first sip. Yes, the first sip is considered “sacrificial” since it’s usually the most bitter. After that, they refill the gourd with hot water and pass it around to the next person.

2. The Sharing Circle: The cebador refills the gourd and hands it off to someone else, who drinks all the liquid, and then passes it back to the cebador. The cebador repeats the process for everyone in the circle. And yes, you will all be sharing the same gourd and straw. If the idea of communal sipping makes you a little nervous, just consider it part of the Argentine bonding experience.

3. Don’t Say “Gracias” Until You’re Done: When it’s your turn, just sip and pass it back to the cebador. Saying “gracias” while mate is being served signals that you’re done and don’t want any more. So, if you’re not finished yet, save your gratitude for the end.

Where to Try Mate in Mendoza

Mate is everywhere in Argentina. While it’s often enjoyed at home or during social gatherings, there are some great places in Mendoza where you can experience mate culture while soaking in the local vibe.

How to Make Mate Like a Local

If you want to take your new love for mate to the next level, why not try making it yourself? It’s pretty simple, but it requires a bit of know-how.

1. Get the Gear: You’ll need a mate gourd (or calabash), a bombilla (metal straw), and of course, yerba mate. Supermarkets and local markets like Mercado Central de Mendoza are great places to pick up your supplies.
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2. Pack the Gourd: Fill your mate gourd about three-quarters full with yerba mate. Tilt the gourd slightly so the leaves settle on one side.

3. Add Warm Water: Add a small amount of warm (not boiling) water to the yerba. This is important! Boiling water will burn the leaves, and nobody likes burned mate.

4. Insert the Bombilla: Place the bombilla into the yerba, and be careful not to stir the leaves around too much.

5. Pour Hot Water and Sip: Slowly pour hot water (again, not boiling) over the yerba and take a sip. Don’t gulp—mate is meant to be savored.

Etiquette Tips for Drinking Mate

Mate has its own set of unwritten rules, and if you want to fit in with the locals, there are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Don’t Stir the Bombilla: Once the bombilla is in place, leave it alone. Stirring it around in the gourd is a big no-no.

2. Finish Your Portion: When it’s your turn to drink, finish all the liquid in the gourd before passing it back. Don’t just take a sip and leave the rest for the next person.

3. Saying “Gracias”: As mentioned earlier, saying “gracias” means you’re done drinking mate for now. So, save that until you’ve had your fill.

4. Don’t Rush: Mate is a social drink meant to be enjoyed slowly, so take your time and savor it.

Best Places to Buy Mate and Yerba in Mendoza

Conclusion: Drink Like a Mendocino

Drinking mate is more than just trying a new beverage; it’s about embracing a cultural tradition that’s deeply ingrained in the fabric of Argentine society. Whether you’re sitting in a local café or making it yourself, sipping mate is a great way to connect with locals and take part in one of Argentina’s most beloved customs. So, next time you’re in Mendoza, put down the wine glass (briefly) and pick up a mate gourd—you won’t regret it.