[bhako]

I'm from Argentina, it's normal to do both, its a very social drink with friends. Not too higienical

[ElectricBoogie]

I tried it, it's quite bitter and grassy. Not sure if it was the brand or how I made it, or if that's how it's supposed to be.

[Jtsummers]

Straight mate is bitter. My wife and some people I've shared it with have said the same about it being grassy, I don't taste that myself though. You can also get it with mint or orange or other things if you don't want straight mate (I have these and plain mate so I can pick what I want each day). Some people add sugar or honey to it as well.

EDIT: Also, the first steeping and drink is the most bitter. After that it's much, much less bitter. Comparable to other teas and black coffee.