Yerba mate despalada and elaborada – discover the differences and choose the perfect mate tea for you!

Yerba mate delights tea enthusiasts from all over the world. It is not just about its unique taste and aroma, but also its wealth of energising and health-promoting properties. Online shops offer a wide range of yerba mate types – from classic varieties to more sophisticated flavour compositions. However, for those who are just beginning their journey with yerba mate, questions may arise about the differences between the two main types of this brew: yerba mate despalada and elaborada. What do these mysterious names mean? When is it worth choosing despalada, and when elaborada? We invite you to read our guide, which will clear up any doubts!
Summary:
- Yerba mate elaborada – the basis of every blend
- Yerba mate despalada – what makes it special?
- Elaborada vs despalada – key differences
- How to choose between yerba mate elaborada and despalada?
Yerba mate elaborada – the basis of every blend
Elaborada yerba mate is the basic, classic form of yerba mate – dried and ground leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant, processed and ready for packaging and then sold, or to be topped up with additives to create flavoured blends. The characteristic production process of yerba mate includes sieving the ground mate at the final stage to separate leaves from twigs, and then recombining them into appropriate proportions. Why is this done? It is due to official regulations imposed by Argentina's INYM – National Institute of Yerba Mate – which set the maximum allowable percentage of twigs in the final product. This ensures that all types of yerba mate meet specific quality and taste standards.
Elaborada can have varying proportions of leaves and twigs. Yerba mate with a higher percentage of twigs (approximately 20-35%) is called yerba mate elaborada con palo – "with sticks". On the other hand, yerba mate with a smaller amount of twigs (up to 10%) is sometimes referred to as elaborada sin palo ("without sticks"), elaborada despalada, or simply despalada. Interestingly, despalada is also part of the yerba mate elaborada category – it is simply a variant with fewer sticks. Hence, the common informal distinction between "yerba mate elaborada and despalada" can be slightly misleading because despalada is, in fact, a subset of elaborada. The difference lies in the proportions of ingredients and the intensity of flavour. Let’s now take a closer look at despalada’s unique blend!

Yerba mate despalada – what makes it special?
It’s time to get to know the variant of yerba mate with fewer twigs up close: despalada yerba mate, also known as sin palo yerba mate. As we’ve learned, "despalada" means that the yerba mate blend contains almost exclusively leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant, with no (or minimal, up to 10%) twigs. In practice, such blends usually contain around 3-5% twigs. The absence of these woody elements results in a more distinct, intense flavour and an increased energy boost.
It’s worth noting the role that twigs play in traditional yerba mate blends – they act as a kind of "filler", which softens the taste and effect of the infusion. They also act as a filter, reducing the chance of dust particles from clogging the bombilla. The presence of twigs creates a more delicate and balanced taste. In the case of yerba mate despalada, the lack of this "softening" function results in a brew that is drier, bolder in taste, and slightly stronger in effect – perfect for those looking for maximum stimulation and deep flavour experiences. This makes it an excellent choice for a dynamic morning or long hours at work when you need a strong energy boost.
Special case – yerba mate green despalada
Among the basic types of yerba mate, there’s an interesting variation: yerba mate green despalada – a type where the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant are dried using hot air rather than fire and smoke and are not aged. This process preserves the light green colour of the leaves and offers a milder, fresher taste with more antioxidant properties. At the same time, despite its gentler character, the infusion still delivers an energising effect as strong as a classic despalada. "Green" variants are particularly popular among those who value natural, less processed products.
Elaborada vs despalada – key differences
Now that we’re familiar with the basic definitions of both types of yerba mate, let’s clearly outline the main differences between them. Surprisingly, both types belong to the same category – yerba mate elaborada, which is a blend where leaves and twigs are appropriately combined after grinding and sieving. The key difference lies in the proportion of these two components:
- Yerba mate elaborada, elaborada con palo or simply con palo – contains up to 35% twigs. The presence of twigs affects the flavour, making it gentler and slightly milder. This is a classic choice for those who prefer a softer taste profile. Examples of traditional yerba mate elaborada con palo available in our store are: Yaguar Elaborada con Palo, El Fuego Elaborada, Rosamonte Elaborada con Palo Tradicional, and Selecta Elaborada con Palo Tradicional.
- Yerba mate elaborada despalada, elaborada sin palo, despalada sin palo or simply despalada – contains up to 10% twigs and thus features a stronger, more vivid flavour and effect. It’s ideal for individuals who enjoy profound, complete flavour notes with an extra energetic "kick". Examples of classic yerba mate despalada sin palo available in our store are: Soul Mate sin Humo Despalada, Rio Parana Despalada sin Palo, Selecta Despalada sin Palo, and Rosamonte Despalada. A milder option is yerba mate green despalada, with a notable example being the Brazilian brand Verde Mate Green.
To simplify, people often refer to the two main types of yerba mate as elaborada and despalada, even though despalada is essentially a specialised version of elaborada. Differences in taste, effects, and consistency are worth exploring personally to find the version that best suits your preferences.

How to choose between yerba mate elaborada and despalada?
The choice between elaborada and despalada mainly depends on what you value in an Ilex paraguariensis brew. If you’re just beginning your adventure with yerba mate, elaborada con palo is the most universal and classic choice. Its milder taste and lower dustiness make it an excellent ritual for beginners.
Yerba mate elaborada is perfect for:
- those new to yerba mate,
- people who prefer a milder flavour,
- those who enjoy a traditional, balanced brew,
- those looking for mate tea suitable for longer brewing sessions.
On the other hand, if you need intense stimulation and bold flavour experiences, go for despalada. Known for its stronger character, it will suit the preferences of those who seek bold and pronounced flavours and a solid energy boost.
Yerba mate despalada is ideal for:
- more experienced yerba mate enthusiasts,
- fans of intense flavour,
- individuals looking for stronger stimulation,
- those who prefer a brew without additives (just the pure leaves, without twigs).
Despalada or elaborada? Find your favourite taste!
Choosing between yerba mate elaborada con palo and yerba mate despalada sin palo comes down to your preferences. If you prefer something milder and more classic, choose elaborada. If, however, you seek maximum flavour intensity and effect, despalada is the right choice.
In our store, you’ll find a rich selection of both yerba mate elaborada and despalada – from traditional classics to intriguing flavoured variations. These come from reputable producers, guaranteeing authentic taste straight from South America. Whichever version you choose, you’re assured the highest quality and unforgettable flavour experiences. Check out our selection and start your yerba mate adventure today!
Sources of information:
- Wikipedia: Mate.
- A. Gawron-Gzella, J. Chanaj-Kaczmarek, J. Cielecka-Piontek, Yerba Mate – A Long but Current History, Nutrients, 2021.
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