Guayaki - great mission, sub-par yerba experience

Guayaki is a newer player in the yerba market, having been started by a few years ago, and sold primarily in the US (made with Argentine yerba).  Their mission is certainly noble in terms of sustainability, giving back to the community and fair trade investments - there is no doubt that they are trying to do some very positive things for the yerba growers and environment. 
However, as this is a review of yerbas, I have to say for the price that one pays, the experience is sub-optimal.  It has an extremely bitter taste and can be described as almost abrasive, especially when comparing to the majority of Argentine brands on the market.  The after taste is also poor, where most yerbas leave a green tea type after taste (a bit earthy) this yerba leaves a strong after taste that is hard to get rid off.  To down this yerba, much sugar/honey was required on our part. 
This is a yerba better suited for a tea bag, vs a traditional mateada.  That being said, I would love to know if others agree with my assessment, as each yerba experience is different for different people. 
Lastly, it is also quite an expensive yerba.  One could buy an imported yerba brand from Argentina/Paraguay/Uruguay for cheaper on line, even with shipping/taxes included.  As a company they are great, but in my opinion, their yerba does not live up to the expectations.

Taragui - the Original

Taragui is produced by Las Marias, one of the oldest and most famous producers of Yerba in Argentina.  Taragui is a classic, if you have ever tried Mate, most likely this is one of the first yerba's you would have tried.  It has a true yerba taste, yet can be a bit strong for unaccustomed mate drinkers.  Taragui also has a bit more energy behind it, some people have noticed more of an energy kick vs other traditional yerba's like Union (personally, I do not notice this but just wanted to let you know). 
The flavor is smooth, a bit earthy and just an all around good yerba.  There are not too many stems in the original and does not clog the bombilla easy.  If you are looking for a nice, traditional yerba as an entry point, then you could do no wrong with Taragui.