FAQs

Have questions about our products or services? You're in the right place! Find quick answers to common inquiries below.

If you need further assistance, feel free to contact us.

  • Yerba Mate

  • Our Products

  • Care Guide

  • Orders

  • Shipping & Delivery

  • Customer Service

Yerba Mate

What is yerba mate, and where does it come from?

Yerba mate is a traditional South American beverage made from the dried leaves and twigs of the Ilex paraguariensis plant, a species of holly native to parts of South America, primarily found in countries like Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and southern Brazil. The drink has a long history and cultural significance among indigenous peoples in these regions, and it is often consumed socially and ceremonially.

What are the health benefits associated with drinking yerba mate?

Yerba mate is known for its various health benefits, which include:

  • Rich in antioxidants
  • Boosts energy and mental alertness
  • Support digestion
  • Nutrient-rich
  • Potential weight management support

To learn more about the benefits of yerba mate, visit our blog.

How is yerba mate different from other types of tea or coffee?

Yerba mate differs from other teas and coffee in several ways:

  • Source: Yerba mate comes from the Ilex paraguariensis plant, while tea comes from the Camellia sinensis plant, and coffee beans come from Coffea species.
  • Preparation: Yerba mate is typically prepared by steeping the leaves and twigs in hot water in a mate gourd with a bombilla (metal straw with a filter). Tea is brewed using tea leaves, and coffee is made by brewing ground coffee beans.
  • Flavor and caffeine content: Yerba mate has a unique, slightly bitter flavor profile that is distinct from tea or coffee. It contains caffeine but is generally less concentrated than coffee, providing a smoother energy boost without as much jitteriness.
  • Cultural significance: Yerba mate has deep cultural roots in South America, where it is often consumed socially and carries ceremonial importance, unlike tea or coffee in Western cultures.

Are there different varieties of yerba mate available?

Yes, there are various varieties and blends of yerba mate available, each offering unique flavors and characteristics. Some common types include:

  • Traditional (or plain) yerba mate: Made from pure dried yerba mate leaves and twigs, offering a classic flavor profile.
  • Flavored yerba mate: Infused with additional flavors such as citrus, mint, berries, or spices to create different taste experiences.
  • Roasted yerba mate: Processed differently to achieve a roasted or toasted flavor, often preferred by those who enjoy a richer, earthier taste.
  • Blended yerba mate: Mixtures of yerba mate with herbs, fruits, or other botanicals to enhance flavor or provide specific health benefits.

Our Products

What materials are used in crafting our products, and how do they contribute to their quality?

Our products are crafted using premium materials such as genuine leather, wood, and high-grade metals, chosen for their durability and aesthetic.

These materials undergo meticulous selection and testing to ensure they meet our quality standards, resulting in products that are not only beautiful but also built to last.

The artisanal process involved in creating the products,

Each our our products is meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans who specialize in specific crafting techniques, including leatherworking, woodworking, and metal forging.

Our artisans bring years of expertise and passion to every step of the crafting process, from design and prototyping to finishing touches. This artisanal approach ensures attention to detail, unique character, and superior quality in every piece they create.

How long does it take to create a mate gourd?

The time required to create a mate gourd can vary depending on several factors such as design complexity, material used, artisan's experience, and special processes involved. Here's a general breakdown of the timeline:

  • Design and Planning.
  • Material Preparation.
  • Crafting Process.
  • Drying and Curing.
  • Quality Control and Finishing Touches.

The entire process from design to finished product can range from a couple of days to several weeks, ensuring attention to detail and high-quality craftmanship in each mate gourd.

How do we ensure consistency and high standards in our products?

We maintain strict quality control measures and standards at every stage of production. Our artisans follow detailed specifications and techniques to ensure consistency in design, materials, and finishes.

Additionally, we regularly review and refine our processes based on customer feedback and industry best practices, ensuring that our products not only meet but exceed expectations in terms of quality, craftmanship, and customer satisfaction.

Care Guide

How do I properly season or cure my new mate gourd?

To season a new mate gourd, follow these steps:

  1. Fill the gourd with yerba mate and hot (not boiling) water.
  2. Let is sit for 24 hours, allowing the gourd to absorb moisture and expand.
  3. Empty the gourd, rinse it thoroughly and let it air dry completely.
  4. Repeat this process a few times until the gourd develops a cured, seasoned interior.

What is the difference between a traditional mate gourd and a modern mate gourd?

Traditional mate gourds are often made from natural materials like calabash gourds or wood, while modern gourds may be made from ceramic, metal, or other materials.

Traditional gourds require curing and have a classic aesthetic, whereas modern gourds may feature unique designs, double-walled construction, or built-in filters.

How do I clean and maintain my mate gourd and bombilla?

To clean your mate gourd and bombilla:

  • Rinse the gourd and bombilla with warm water after each use. In the case of a leather exterior mate, do not let the water have contact with it.
  • Use a spoon to gently scrub the interior of the gourd.
  • Avoid using soap or harsh chemicals, as they can affect the flavor of your mate.
  • Allow the gourd and bombilla to air dry completely before storing them.

Can I use my mate gourd for other beverages besides yerba mate?

While mate gourds are primarily designed for preparing and drinking yerba mate, they can also be used for other hot or cold beverages like herbal teas, coffee, or infused water.

Keep in mind that mate gourds absorb flavors, which will remain for a few other uses, and will not have a clean yerba mate taste.

Orders

How do you place an order on our website?

Placing and order on our website is easy. Simply follow these steps:

  1. Browse our product catalog and select the items you wish to purchase.
  2. Add the selected items to your shopping cart.
  3. Proceed to check out, where you will enter your shipping information and payment details.
  4. Review your order summary and complete the payment process to place your order successfully.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept a variety of payment methods to provide convenience to our customers. These include:

  • Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, etc.)
  • Shop Pay.
  • Google Pay, Apple Pay, and Meta Pay.
  • PayPal.

Is it safe to enter my credit card information on your website?

Yes, it is safe to enter your credit card information on our website. We use Shopify, a trusted and secure e-commerce platform that complies with the highest industry standards for payment security. Shopify is PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) compliant, which means that it meets stringent requirements for handling credit card information securely.

Can I cancel or modify my order after it has been placed?

We understand that circumstances may change after placing an order. While we strive to process orders promptly, you may contact our customer support team as soon as possible if you need to cancel or modify your order. Our team will assist you based on the order status and feasibility of changes.

Shipping & Delivery

What are your shipping options and rates?

We offer various shipping options based on your location and preferences. Shipping rates are calculated at checkout and may vary depending on the shipping method chosen and the destination of your order.

How long does it take for orders to be processed and shipped?

Orders are typically processed within 1-2 business days after payment confirmation. Once processed, orders are shipped out, and you will receive a shipping confirmation email with tracking information.

Do you offer free shipping? If so, under what conditions?

Yes, we offer free shipping on orders over a certain amount. The minimum order value for free shipping may vary based on your region or promotions. During checkout, you will see if your order qualifies for free shipping.

Can I track my order once it has been shipped?

Yes, you can track your order once it has been shipped. We provide tracking information in your shipping confirmation email or order status page. Simply click on the tracking link to view the status and location of your package.

What should I do if there's a problem with my delivery?

In the rare event of a delivery issue such as a delay, damaged package, or missing items, please contact our customer support team immediately. We will work with our shipping partners to resolve the issue and ensure you receive your order satisfactorily.

Customer Service

What is your return policy?

We have a strict no-return policy, particularly for mate gourds, due to their unique nature and craftsmanship. Mate gourds are handcrafted with meticulous care, and once they are used, they lose their authenticity and cannot be resold as new. To maintain the integrity of our products and ensure that each customer receives a genuine and high-quality mate gourd, we do not accept returns for these items. Please carefully review your order and consider the product details before completing your purchase.

Please, contact us for more questions.

What should I do if I receive a damaged or defective item?

While we have a no-return policy, if you receive a damaged or defective item, please contact our customer service team within 48 hours of receiving your order. We will review the issue and work with you to find a satisfactory resolution, which may include a replacement or refund depending on the situation.

Do you offer assistance with product selection or recommendations?

Absolutely! Our customer service team is here to help you with product selection, recommendations, and any questions you may have about our products. Whether you need guidance on choosing the right mate gourd size or want to explore different accessories, we are happy to assist you in finding the perfect products to meet your preferences.

How can I provide feedback or share my experience with your products?

We value your feedback and appreciate hearing about your experience with our products. You can provide feedback, reviews, or testimonials by visiting our website and leaving a review on the product pages or contacting our customer service team directly. Your feedback helps us improve our products and services to better serve our customers.

How can I contact your customer service team?

You can contact our customer service team via email - delsurmate@gmail.com , phone at +1 (215) 298-8388, or live chat. We are available every day to assist you with any inquiries, concerns, or issues you may have regarding your order or our products.