Review on ☕ Enhance Your Yerba Mate Experience with Balibetov's Authentic Wood Gourd by Robert Hunter

I needed a new assistant so I ordered the all aluminum version of the Palo Santo assistant mainly for its looks. It didn't disappoint! My order was shipped very quickly, but since I opted for free shipping, it took me a while to receive it. When it finally arrived I was very pleased and excited to use it. It's the perfect size and the combination of aluminum and wood just looks beautiful. I cured the mat according to the specs on the product page (I used olive oil) and waited 3 agonizing days to use it. It took on a moldy greenish-black color that was completely gone (except for a few blemishes around the edge) after a thorough wash. Before first use, it was restored to its natural beautiful wood color. Unfortunately after the 2nd or 3rd use it developed a crack which may have been caused by the curing process, hot water or something else. So I took pictures and emailed the seller who responded quickly (Kim was excellent) and advised that it might have gone through an incomplete curing process. However, she apologized and offered to replace the product. I was disappointed as it had just taken on the heady scent of wood infused mate and without the cracks would have made the perfect vessel for yerba as per the product description. The replacement also came quickly (between 5-7 days I think) but unfortunately it was damaged on delivery. I went through the same process (photos and email) which again Kim responded quickly to! After a hearty back-and-forth regarding available stock, she assured me they would send a third mate - I opted for semi-aluminum. , half wooden this time, in case the other version has problems. I'm still waiting for it to arrive, once it arrives and I get a chance to try it I'll update this post and give it the 5 stars it deserves. So I haven't had a long time with this pal, but I have high hopes for the first 2-3 uses of the original item. The bombilla works great (they're really all the same) and I don't need the little spoon that comes with it, but it's nice nonetheless. was sent in damaged condition. It's not the seller's fault. always right"! You just don't get it these days. PLASTIC to Balibetov!