Straight mate has a lighter flavour, like green tea. (Not that the two are in any way interchangeable, they just have a similar refined lightness.) Thankfully, it doesn’t oversteep as easily, meaning it survives travel mug abuse quite well.
Usually I prefer blends with mate in them, but I was in the mood for it straight today. It’s dry, light, refined. Pairs well both with savoury and sweet foods. I’m happy with this.