What Is Yerba Maté and Why Australians Love It

Discover the ancient South American brew that's taking Australia by storm, naturally energising, refreshingly modern, and perfectly suited to our lifestyle.

What Is Yerba Maté?

Yerba maté comes from the Ilex paraguariensis plant, traditionally grown in Argentina, Paraguay, Brazil and Uruguay. For centuries, it has been prepared using a gourd (mate) and metal straw (bombilla) and enjoyed socially much like Aussies share coffees or cold drinks on a warm day.

These compounds work together to deliver a natural buzz which is a more balanced boost compared to coffee.To learn more about the plant’s botany, you can visit the Royal Botanic Gardens’ guide to Ilex species.

Natural Plant Origin

Sourced from the Ilex paraguariensis plant native to South America

Rich Cultural Heritage

Enjoyed for centuries across Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Brazil

Community Drink

Traditionally shared among friends and family in a social ritual

yerba plant

A Taste Profile Australians Actually Enjoy

Traditional yerba maté has an earthy, herbal taste somewhere between green tea and mild roasted notes. Depending on how it’s dried and processed, the flavour can range from grassy to slightly smoky.

But sparkling maté has quickly become the Aussie-friendly evolution.

Supermaté’s brews are made for Australian tastebuds, refreshing, modern and balanced without overpowering sweetness.

Light, Refreshing Taste

A smoother, more approachable flavour profile designed to feel light on the palate.

Crisp, Sparkling Finish

Gentle carbonation delivers a clean, refreshing lift with every sip.

Smooth, Low-Bitterness Profile

Less bitter than traditional hot maté, making it easy to enjoy chilled or on the go.

yerba plant

Natural Buzz: How Yerba Maté Makes You Feel

Yerba maté offers a gentle, sustained lift—ideal for study sessions, after-work slumps, road trips, or pre-party energy when you’re skipping the alcohol.

Its natural energy effect comes from a combination of botanical stimulants, which research suggests may support alertness and mental focus (check external reference)Unlike coffee, many people report:

Feels Easier on the Body

Less nervous energy and fewer jitters compared to traditional caffeine hits.

No Sudden Peaks

A steadier rise in alertness without the sharp spikes.

No Hard Crash

Energy tapers off naturally instead of dropping suddenly.

yerba plant

The Wellness Profile

(Without Overclaiming)

Yerba maté has been studied for its antioxidants, polyphenols and bioactive compounds. While it’s not a miracle cure, science-backed sources note potential benefits such as:

Antioxidants

Packed with natural antioxidants

Polyphenols

Rich in beneficial polyphenols

Mental Focus

Potential support for mental clarity

Hydration

Hydration-friendly when consumed cold

Note: Yerba Maté contains naturally occurring beneficial compounds. While traditionally recognized for its wellness properties, individual experiences may vary. Supermaté is a refreshing beverage, not a medical product.

Why Australians Are Falling in Love with Yerba Maté

Australia’s drink culture is changing fast and yerba maté is hitting every major trend:
1

Non-Alcoholic Social Movement

More Aussies are choosing "0% nights" without giving up the buzz or the social vibe.
2

Natural, Functional Energy

As people move away from artificial energy drinks, yerba maté offers a cleaner, plant-powered lift.
3

Low-Sugar Lifestyle Shifts

Drinkers want flavour without 10 teaspoons of sugar hidden in every can.
4

Premium Artisanal Beverages

Australia's craft soda and premium drink scene is thriving, and maté fits naturally into it.
5

Climate-Friendly Refreshment

In warmer months, a sparkling iced maté hits the spot far more than a hot coffee.

How Australians Enjoy Yerba Maté Today

From traditional South American rituals to modern sparkling sodas, yerba maté fits effortlessly into the Australian lifestyle.

Traditional Styles

Hot Maté (Classic Brew)
Bold, earthy and traditionally enjoyed hot using a gourd and metal straw.

Tereré (Iced Maté)
Served cold and refreshing, perfect for warm climates and outdoor socialising.

Cold-Brew Maté
Smooth, less bitter and highly refreshing, ideal for a lighter energy lift.


Modern Aussie-Friendly Styles

Sparkling Yerba Maté Soda
A crisp, refreshing evolution of maté made for modern tastes.

Non-Alcoholic Pre-Party Energy
A natural buzz before social events, without alcohol.

Afternoon Clean Energy Break
A steady lift to beat the mid-afternoon slump.

On-the-Go Energy Alternative
A lighter option compared to traditional canned energy drinks.

Mocktails & Mixers
A versatile base for alcohol-free cocktails or low-alc mixes.

Why Supermaté Works for Australian Tastebuds

Supermaté takes the tradition of yerba maté and adapts it for modern Australian preferences. Brewed using organic maté, it delivers natural caffeine with a lighter flavour, crisp carbonation and low sugar.

Made locally in Melbourne, Supermaté is designed for non-alcoholic socialising, warm days, summer parties and everyday energy without the crash.

Where Supermaté Fits into Everyday Life

Everyday Clean Energy
A refreshing alternative to coffee or energy drinks during busy workdays.

Non-Alcoholic Social Moments
Perfect for BBQs, parties and gatherings when choosing a no-alcohol option without missing the buzz.

Warm Weather Refreshment
Served cold and sparkling, ideal for Australia’s outdoor lifestyle and summer heat.

On-the-Go Convenience
An easy grab-and-go option for active Australians who want natural energy without the crash.

Supermaté bridges the gap between natural energy drinks, premium sodas and Australia’s growing non-alcoholic movement.

A Soda With All Natural Ingredients

Heaps of that unique Yerba Maté flavour. Better for you and low in calories so we can drink it whenever we like. In cans so we can take it to festivals and make it easy to recycle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Yerba Maté and Supermaté

Yes. Yerba Maté naturally contains caffeine, delivering a smooth and sustained energy lift.

No. While all three come from different plants, yerba maté shares some antioxidant properties with green tea but has a more robust, herbal flavour.

Most people experience a smoother, more balanced lift due to the mix of stimulants (caffeine + theobromine). Sensitivity varies person to person.

Yes. Sparkling maté sodas offer a lighter, less bitter taste that’s far more approachable for beginners.

Most sparkling maté drinks contain roughly the caffeine of a standard cup of tea, gentle, mild and steady. Check labels for exact amounts.

Absolutely. Its natural energy makes it a favourite alternative at parties, BBQs, festivals and gatherings.

Ready to Try Yerba Maté the Aussie Way?

Experience the natural energy, refreshing taste, and wellness benefits of Yerba Maté in a sparkling soda made for Australian lifestyles.

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