Given my adoration for kombuchas of all kinds, I thought it would be nice to switch up my normal Synergy routine and try a different brand. Camellia Grove kombucha is made with yerba mate as opposed to the typical green or black tea base of most brands (although Camellia’s makes varieties with the old standby’s as well.) It sounded unique enough to give it a try and, heck … I’m open-minded about these things.
Yerba mate tea is a traditional South American beverage made from the dried leaves and stems of the Ilex paraguariensis plant, a species of holly native to the Atlantic Forest. Popular in countries like Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and southern Brazil, it’s known for its unique flavor—earthy, herbal, and slightly bitter—and its stimulating effects due to caffeine and other compounds.
Also, yerba mate contains 30–50 mg of caffeine per 8 oz (240 mL) serving. This is less than coffee (95–200 mg per 8 oz) but more than most green teas (20–45 mg per 8 oz). However, the fermentation process likely denigrates some of that effect, although it does serve as a slight pick-me-up.
Its unique flavor profile definitely was front and center in this kombucha. I tasted more yerba mate than kombucha. While that is not my cup of tea, per se, if you like that earthy, bitter taste, you’re in for a treat. I did love the effervescent quality, and it was quite refreshing on a hot summer day. So if someone offered this to me after a day in the garden or doing housework, I certainly wouldn’t turn it down. As with most of my bubbly drinks that contain sugar, I do like to cut them with some sparkling water (preferably Topo Chico) to reduce some of my sugar intake for the day, and maybe add a slice of lemon or lime!
If you like your summertime iced teas, Camellia Grove kombucha offers great alternatives.
Try all the varieties of Camellia Grove kombucha and let us know which one is your favorite! Their Jasmine might be next on my list!