An overview of the Starbucks winter drinks menu

in Features by

As winter approaches, Starbucks is already making preparations. The coffee chain officially released their holiday drinks menu Nov. 2. Here is a review of the various winter beverages. 

Peppermint Mocha Latte: 

Since 2002, the peppermint mocha latte has been a staple of the Starbucks holiday menu. With its extensive history, I expected a drink that could instantly transport me to a winter wonderland with just a sip. Instead, I simply received an ordinary mocha latte that tasted overwhelmingly sweet. Although the peppermint syrup certainly made its presence known, it did not truly taste “minty,” and ended up just leaving an uncomfortable lingering taste. For those with a strong sweet tooth, the drink may be the perfect addition, but as for me, I’ll stick with a stick of gum or a candy cane.  

Chestnut Praline Latte:

If you crave a warm, comforting drink, the chestnut praline latte is a great choice. At the heart of the drink is the chestnut praline syrup which offers a rich, nutty sweetness with none of the overly sweet flavors of the peppermint mocha. Combined with a shot of espresso, the drink is the perfect way to start your morning off right.  

Iced Sugar Cookie Almond Milk Latte:

Combining espresso with almond milk, sugar cookie syrup and a sprinkle of cookie crumbles, the iced sugar cookie latte offers a refreshing twist on holiday flavors. What makes it so good is the careful balance it strikes between flavors. Using almond milk as an alternative provided a smooth, silky backdrop which complemented the lighter undertones of vanilla and sugar cookie, ultimately creating a delicious blend. 

Caramel Brulée Latte:

The Caramel Brulée Latte returns to Starbucks’ winter menu, offering a rich and indulgent option for caramel lovers. With every sip, you can taste the warm, buttery flavor of caramel. The caramel brulée sauce drizzled on top of the drink adds a certain richness, reminiscent of a perfectly caramelized crème brûlée. It may not be the most traditional holiday flavor, but this latte is a delicious, comforting treat to accompany you during the holidays.

Iced Gingerbread Oat Milk Chai:

Making its debut this holiday season, the iced gingerbread chai blends together the earthy flavor of chai with the taste of spicy warm gingerbread. Starbucks’ decision to use oat milk greatly contributes to the drink, giving it a creamy texture that complements the strong flavors. For those looking to capture the essence of the holidays this iced chai is a must-try. (Photo/Irene John)

Irene, now a senior at American Heritage, returns to staff as the Online-Editor-in-Chief for her third and final year with the Patriot Post. She loves all things literature and spends most of her time with her nose in a book. Her passion for writing started early, and she is currently the co-president of the Quill and Scroll Society. When she is not studying or writing articles for the wonderful iPatriotPost, she enjoys volunteering and helping lead a multitude of clubs at Heritage. Since 2014, she has worked alongside Best Buddies, an organization that advocates for inclusivity for those with intellectual and physical disabilities. As a co-founder and current board member of the South Florida Best Buddies Student Advisory Board, she plans fundraisers and service projects, including the annual Friendship Walk, which raised almost $300,000. She looks forward to making this year special and as amazing as possible.