Argentine tea culture

Argentina's tea culture presents a captivating blend of local traditions and international influences. While Argentina is a key tea producer, it is most renowned for mate, a cherished beverage made from the leaves of the yerba mate plant.

Historically, Jesuit missionaries initially attempted to prohibit yerba mate due to concerns about its potentially addictive properties. Nevertheless, they eventually began cultivating it in the Misiones province. The early 20th century marked the introduction of non-native tea varieties to Argentina, with domestic production surging significantly following a ban on imported tea in 1951. Today, Argentina stands as the ninth-largest tea producer globally, with most cultivation occurring in the Misiones and Corrientes provinces.

Mate, an herbal tea deeply treasured in Argentina and its neighboring countries, is traditionally served in a gourd and sipped through a metal straw known as a bombilla. It holds considerable cultural significance and is often shared in a ceremonial manner. Known for its health benefits and high caffeine content, mate is prepared in various styles that are popular across Argentina.

Tea-drinking customs in Argentina are diverse and regionally distinct. In Patagonia, traditional Welsh tea houses offer unique tea experiences, while British-influenced tea establishments in Buenos Aires add another dimension to the scene. Younger Argentines are increasingly swayed by global tea trends, creating a new wave of tea preferences in the country.