Starbucks Japan has kicked off the winter season with the release of exciting new frappuccino flavors, capturing the essence of seasonal beverages. On December 26, 2024, Starbucks unveiled its latest offerings, which are expected to delight customers throughout the chilly months.
This year, the centerpiece of the menu is the Royal Earl Grey Bouquet Frappuccino, a beautifully crafted drink inspired by the enchanting aroma of Earl Grey tea. Blending various floral notes—including chamomile, jasmine, lavender, and juniper berries—this frappuccino is not just refreshing; it’s also visually stunning. Available only in Tall size, customers can enjoy it for 678 yen when taken to go or 690 yen for dine-in.
According to Kazu, a coffee sommelier, the beverage uses original Earl Grey tea developed especially for this frappuccino. "The Royal Earl Grey Bouquet Frappuccino offers a beautiful tea base blended with various floral notes," Kazu noted, emphasizing the drink's complexity and the delightful experience it provides.
The presentation of this frappuccino is worth mentioning as much as its flavor. Topped with light, fluffy whipped cream and adorned with two-color fiantines imitating flowers, the drink evokes the impression of receiving a flower bouquet. The texture contrasts beautifully with the balanced sweetness of the drink, resulting in what can only be described as liquid elegance.
Many customers will be drawn to the appeal of customizing their drinks. Suggestions include substituting the milk for soy or adding honey to enrich the sweetness. With honey, it creates more of a significant visual impact, enhancing both the flavor and presentation of the overall experience. Natsuki Yoshikawa, a food writer, commented, "Perfect for unwinding during the busy end-of-year season." This makes it not just any beverage but one to indulge in during festive moments.
On the same day, Starbucks also launched the Royal Earl Grey Bouquet Tea Latte, another tempting addition to its winter offerings. Utilizing the same original Earl Grey tea as the frappuccino, the latte offers customers a warm alternative to the cold drink, perfect for staying cozy. It highlights creamy milk combined with the tea's floral notes, creating a smooth and decadent drink option.
This tea latte is available at varying sizes and pricing, starting at 540 yen for Short size and scaling accordingly. The flavor is enhanced through the inclusion of floral-inspired fiantines on top, providing the same aesthetic appeal as the frappuccino.
Lastly, the Honey Ginger Chai Tea Latte is making its debut as well, adding warmth and comfort to the winter menu. This drink combines elements of traditional chai with ginger, creating a gentle spice balanced by the sweetness of honey and the brightness of orange notes. According to Starbucks, it is ideal for warming up during the colder days when comfort is key.
Like the other beverages, the Honey Ginger Chai Tea Latte is available for varied sizes. Customers can start sipping this soothing drink from 530 yen. Given its ginger infusion and milky texture, it serves as the perfect antidote to winter chills, with recommendations for adding soy milk for an extra creamy experience.
Starbucks is not only offering new delightful beverages this winter; it is inviting its customers to indulge and enjoy seasonal experiences at their friendly neighborhood stores. With all these new product launches, it’s clear Starbucks has put thoughtful care and creativity behind its menu, catering to the customer's desires for beautiful and flavorful options.
Be sure to visit the nearest Starbucks to enjoy these new winter delights before they disappear. The Royal Earl Grey Bouquet Frappuccino and Royal Earl Grey Bouquet & Tea Latte will be available from December 26, 2024, to January 14, 2025, and the Honey Ginger Chai Tea Latte will be offered until April 8, 2025. Take this opportunity to treat yourself to these limited-time beverages and bring warmth and cheer to your winter days.
