Following the end of the Halloween season, the long-awaited holiday menu that many avid Starbucks fans have been awaiting was finally released this November. The beloved Pumpkin Spice that had been anticipated for months after their, frankly disappointing menu over the summer, has run its course; It’s now time for peppermint, gingerbread, and all things holiday! This year, as is typical, Starbucks has made some alterations to their annual holiday lineup. So, let’s see what new beverages they have created this year and which of our favorites is missing?
The newest, most exciting addition is the never-seen-before Cran-Merry Refresher. Since its release, there appears to be some mixed feelings, however, reviews seem to be mostly favorable for this refreshing, new cranberry beverage. It’s been a while since Starbucks released a new refresher that was widely enjoyed, so the positive response is key for the increasingly declining business the company has been experiencing. Customers have already been exploring different ways to customize this refresher to their liking and due to its success, we may very well see its return next holiday season.
For the second year in a row, the beloved Toasted White Mocha is missing from the line up much to the disappointment of its fans. However, the return of the Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai, released just last year, seems to make up for this missing favorite.
The Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai is a drink for everyone; coffee-drinkers and non-coffee drinkers alike. It’s dairy-free element, especially as a featured drink, makes it accessible to a larger population, particularly those who have been longing for a dairy free option. Last year, the release of this beverage caused a major incline in business during the holiday season and is, what I would call the “Pumpkin Chai of the holidays”. The Pumpkin Chai is extremely loved during the autumn season, and the Gingerbread Chai definitely takes its place during the holidays. Junior, Logan Robertson, says, “It’s the best drink and it’s my favorite thing this season! 10/10 drink, I recommend.”
Another holiday favorite is the Peppermint Mocha. This chocolatey, minty drink has returned yet again; however, this year many customers seem to have an issue with this sweet treat. Recently, many have expressed their concern for the recipe of the Peppermint Mocha, consisting of eight pumps of syrup, equating to about 54 grams of sugar per drink! And this isn’t the only concern: This ‘specialty’ drink isn’t actually a seasonal drink. The Peppermint Mocha can be ordered year-round; however, they only list it as a featured drink during the holidays. Nonetheless, this drink still maintains its popularity after more than two decades since its first appearance.
Whatever your preference, whether you’re in the mood for a hot, cozy coffee, an icy, cold latte, or a refreshing coffee-free beverage, Starbucks is the place for you this winter.
