By Lucas Shaw and Kaya Perales,
Staff Writers.
It could be winter, it could be summer, it could be spring or it could be fall. No matter the season, you may find yourself asking the question: what is the best Yerba Mate flavor? This beloved tea is a splendid and sacred drink for the local community. They’re found everywhere, from Kelly’s Sandwiches to the gas station on the corner of Mendocino, and even in the downstairs bathroom of the main building. But no matter where this totem may be acquired, one must first face a mountain of golden aluminum before making their decision.
Let us begin with the classics: Revel Berry, Enlightenmint and Bluephoria. Arguably, all are mediocre. But that’s okay! They are meant to be run-of-the-mill drinks. Revel Berry is sweet, but it has a flavor reminiscent of apple juice to bring you back to your younger years. Bluephoria is palatable, tasting almost like the cafeteria’s blueberry scones. I don’t know anyone who drinks this, but one thing I can tell you is that it does not evoke any feelings of euphoria. Enlightenmint is flat, but in contrast it remains a bold drink. “My opinion on Yerba Mate depends distinctly on the flavor. If someone’s holding Enlightenmint, I need them to stand 6 feet away from me,” said senior Lilyanna Passalaqua. This is a classic mint tea, loved by many and hated by few, tasting initially of toothpaste, thankfully losing this quality after some patient, leisurely sipping.
Some of the more obscure flavors, which are left hanging by Guayaki’s consumers, have much simpler compositions, a quality I believe should be praised. If one were drinking a new taste like a peach or orange tea, or something simpler like lemon, they may not want to be overwhelmed with sweetness and originality. Peach Revival tastes exactly like a white peach and is perfectly sweet, Orange Exuberance is tangy and strong like a morning cup of joe, and Lemon Elation is refreshing and strong like a glass of sweet iced tea in the summer. Peach Revival, the best of the three, would not be what it is without its simple nature.
These energetic cans can be seen everywhere on campus! Next time you’re looking for a drink, maybe keep some of these suggestions in mind and do the community a favor by buying locally.
