Mate Gourds and Bombillas
Camionero mate calabash engraved - Alpaca and Bronze
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Our accessories for matting
In order to offer the best for traditional mate consumption, we have partnered with an exceptional craftsman.
Our gourd (or mate cup) and mate bombilla (or mate straw) designs are unique and handmade from the finest quality gourd and the best Uruguayan craftsmanship.
On the border between a utilitarian object and an art object, your mate gourd and bombilla will accompany you throughout your life.
How are our mate gourds made?
Our mate gourds are all unique and handmade in Uruguay . They are made from gourds, or created from ceramic.
The gourds used for maté go through the following manufacturing stages:
- Careful harvesting : Our squashes are carefully selected in the temperate climate of southern Brazil, thus guaranteeing their optimal quality.
- Handcrafted preparation : The gourds are then hollowed out and dried, a crucial step that prepares the base of our calabashes.
- Artistic and practical finishes :
- The delicate application of leather adds a touch of elegance and durability.
- The meticulous framing of the "boca" (opening) with alpaca, a precious metal that reinforces the structure while giving it a refined appearance.
- The installation of leather feet ensures perfect stability and a unique design.
This whole process takes between 6 months and 2 years, depending on the size of the squash.
Which mate cup should I choose?
Choosing your mate gourd is a personal decision that will be greatly influenced by your consumption habits and taste preferences.
Indeed, the calabash, much more than a simple container, plays a crucial role in the mate tasting experience .
Three main families can be distinguished:
- The Truckers
The Camioneros are quite large with a "boca" that is thinner than the rest and retain the original shape of the squash. The band is made on the top.
- The Torpedos
Torpedoes are round with a rim on the outer wall, visible from the side. It is said that they are easier to carry thanks to their windproof effect.
- The Imperials
These are the largest gourds. Their rims are most often made of alpaca, sometimes with bronze, silver or even gold.
The band is on the top as well as on the side of the gourd.
In short, choosing the ideal mate gourd depends on the balance between functionality , aesthetics , and personal preference.
Taking the time to reflect on your consumption habits and what you are looking for in the mate experience will help you make an informed choice that will enrich your tasting moments.
Which mate bombilla should I choose?
The selection of a bombilla , the traditional straw used to drink mate, is closely linked to that of the mate gourd.
The size of the gourd directly influences the choice of bombilla.
A larger gourd requires a more robust and heavier bombilla, capable of efficiently filtering the mate leaves and withstanding the pressure of a larger quantity of liquid.
The use of alpaca to make bombillas is not a coincidence.
This material, renowned for its resistance to oxidation , is a preferred choice for objects in frequent contact with water and beverages.
Thus, by choosing an alpaca bombilla, you are investing in an accessory that is practical, durable and aesthetically pleasing.
All our bombillas come with a lifetime guarantee.