Well, well, well…
We meet again La Merced.
Only this time, it seems like you have a new flavor for me to try.
Today, we’re going to review La Merced Barbacuá which is one of the few variations coming from this brand. And if you can’t guess by its name, this mate contains a barbecue/smoky taste.
Or does it?
Let’s find out together, starting off with the nose…
Nose
La Merced Barbacuá arrives in an aluminum bag stored inside its branded box design. Once open, your nose is already welcomed with smoky tones along with notes of wood and hay. The aroma is sharp and actually quite pleasant. Nothing too unique here though.
Taste
When it came time to finally tasting this mate, I was a little disappointed.
Remember, La Merced Barbacuá is smoked using the method that the ancient Guarani Indians used, which is to expose the leaves over burning wood to dry for an entire day. Usually, what this does is impart a strong smoky flavor to the mate, but I don’t get that with this one. Although it states on the box that this mate has a wild smoky flavor, to me, I found the smokiness to be subtle.
But this could just be because I’ve been drinking mate for so long that I’m used to it, so take this with a grain of salt. Especially for you beginners out there.
(Gourd Available Here and Bombilla Here)
Despite your level of experience, however, you’re sure to get a pleasant earthy and woody taste similar to their De Campo version which had a simple, yet delicious flavor profile. Underneath this though, a natural sweetness creeps up to the surface which grows stronger and stronger as you keep sipping.
I found La Merced Barbacuá to do best in temperatures of around 160ºF (71ºC). Any higher, and it may be too bitter/smoky. If you want to tone down the smokiness, go as low as 140ºF (60ºC).
Finish
Once swallowed, La Merced Barbacuá leaves a strong finish behind that doesn’t sit too well on my palate. It’s very astringent and bitter. Enough to make me want to even rinse my mouth with water, or to go for another sip just to mask the flavor. The aftertaste is reminiscent of the same aftertaste of a beer (which I’m not a fan of). The finish also lasts for at least a good minute.
Body/Texture
La Merced Barbacuá is a medium-to-full-bodied mate. From the jump, this mate boasts a heavy, creamy coating. Even after swallowing, you can still feel its presence. The reason why I can’t say this mate is 100% full-bodied is because it quickly loses its weight after a couple refills. But that’s when it gets good…
This mate begins to have this unique bounciness/chewiness to it when you reach around the midway point. It’s hard to explain, but it makes drinking it much more easygoing and enjoyable. Also, after swallowing, you can expect a dry puckery mouth which is likely due to its high tannin content.
Cut
La Merced Barbacuá has an Argentine cut. The blend consists mostly of medium-sized leaves of dark green color. Some leaves are smoked to a tan brown and even black. Stems of varying sizes and thicknesses are also found in the yerba. But when it comes to dust content, it’s almost non-existent. If it weren’t for the palos, this would easily pass as a sin palo brand. That’s not all there is to this cut though…
If you look closely enough, you’ll find that this mate also has seeds in it. I’m not sure how this affects its taste, but this is a first for me. Of all the brands I’ve tried, I’ve never came across this before. Maybe I wasn’t attentive enough in the past, but in this mate, I was able to easily spot them.
Due to this mate’s high leaf content, preparation can be a bit difficult as the mountain of mate doesn’t stick together much. But when it comes to filtration, there shouldn’t be a problem.
Cycle
This mate features a medium-to-long cycle. With the gourd pictured, I can finish up to 3/4 to 1 liter. When drinking, the first third holds up a strong flavor. After that, it slowly mellows out. Even when you reach close to the end, this mate still produces a nice sweetness to keep you sipping.
Effect
When it comes to effect, you can expect the usual. The only difference is it hits you fast.
After just the first gourd, La Merced Barbacuá is sure to have you stimulated. I experience hyper focus and concentration almost instantly. Improved creativity is another perk. And no crashes. However, there has been times when I finish drinking that I experience jitters and anxiousness. So be wary. This mate definitely contains a higher level of caffeine.
Which is also why I would only recommend this as a morning mate. Drink this late into the afternoon or evening and you’re sure to become a night owl.
With the mentioned effects, I prefer drinking La Merced Barbacuá when I’m doing work or even as a preworkout for the gym. The energy is great.
La Merced Barbacua Yerba Mate Review
If you’re looking for a strong, stimulating mate, La Merced Barbacuá is a great option to try.
Although I’m not too crazy about this mate’s taste, its effects are not something to overlook. It’s sure to give materos of all experience levels a good kick in the butt.
High energy, robust, and nice and smoky, this variation probably won’t be too easy for beginners to handle.
So if you’re interested in trying this mate today, visit one of the links below now!
Amazon (US | UK | CA | ES | DE | FR)
Click Here To Get A 500g / 1.1lb Bag
PampaDirect (Worldwide)
Click Here To Get A 500g / 1.1lb Bag
Un-Mate (Europe – 10% OFF Order)
Click Here To Get A 500g / 1.1lb Bag
P.S. If you enjoyed this La Merced Barbacuá Review, you might also want to check out our store for exclusive mate gourds and bombillas.