Starbucks has unveiled a new collection of beverages that hark back to the carefree days of summer, showcasing a range of orange cream drinks designed to invigorate the palate. The new lineup, inspired by nostalgic summer flavours, includes an Orange Cream Cold Brew, Iced Orange Cream Latte, Iced Orange Cream Matcha, Iced Orange Cream Chai, and an Orange Cream Frappuccino.
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The enticing combinations in these drinks highlight vibrant notes of tangerine, mandarin, and vanilla. The team at Starbucks experimented with various citrus flavours, drawing inspiration from blood oranges and the sour Seville oranges often used in marmalades. Ultimately, the goal was to encapsulate the essence of summer, as explained by Kris Murray, a key member of the product development team. “For many people, orange cream is associated with the feeling of summer,” he noted.
Murray elaborated on the evocative nature of the flavours, linking them to childhood memories of enjoying freezer pops and the simple joy of peeling oranges. “The lively colour also resonates with warm weather experiences,” he added, underlining the intended nostalgia that these drinks are set to evoke.
On Tuesday, July 28, a select group of taste testers had the opportunity to sample three of the new drinks ahead of the official release. Early impressions indicated a successful execution of the classic orange-and-vanilla combination, reminiscent of beloved ice cream treats. The addition of orange cream cold foam significantly enhances the taste, providing a refreshing and citrusy twist that pairs excellently with cold brew, matcha, and chai options.
Alongside the new orange-flavoured offerings, Starbucks has reintegrated a popular summer favourite—the S’mores Frappuccino. Originally launched in 2015 and phased out a few years later, the decadent drink is back on the menu momentarily. It combines milk chocolate sauce, graham cracker flavour, and coffee, finished with marshmallow whipped cream and a graham crumble, making it a tempting option for those looking to indulge.
In addition to the returning favourite, Starbucks is introducing a new campfire-inspired beverage known as S’mores Cold Brew, which features cold brew coffee topped with marshmallow-flavoured cold foam, all drizzled with chocolate and sprinkled with graham cracker crumbles. This new offering aims to replicate the comforting essence of a summer campfire experience.
Moreover, Starbucks has expanded its S’mores-themed range with the launch of S’mores Chai. This drink merges chai tea, infused with cosy spices, with toasted marshmallow notes, in conjunction with milk chocolate sauce and graham cracker elements. These additions provide customers with a creative blend of familiar flavours, perfect for summer enjoyment.
On Monday, July 27, Starbucks announced an exciting new partnership with Delta Airlines. Starting from August 5, members of the Starbucks Rewards and Delta SkyMiles programmes will earn one mile for every £1 spent at participating Starbucks locations. To qualify for this initiative, Starbucks Rewards members must have flown with Delta within the previous twelve months. This collaboration promises to give loyal customers added benefits and will be available until October 5.
As summer unfolds, Starbucks appears well-positioned to draw in customers eager to relive fond memories and enjoy refreshing new flavours. With an emphasis on nostalgia and vibrant, uplifting tastes, the coffee giant’s new offerings, paired with the exciting rewards programme, present a delightful experience for coffee lovers looking to savour the essence of the season.