It’s the Most Wonderful Drinks of the Year

Camryn Degutis, Staff Writer

1.  Caramel Brulee Latte

The name of this latte recalls a sugar-induced coma. A Caramel Brulee Latte? Although the name sounds super sweet, the drink itself is not overwhelming at all. This drink doesn’t offer any strong scents right off the bat but instead lets the drink do the talking. The sweet notes of caramel mixes perfectly with the strong espresso as if the coffee and caramel were tangoing to the beat of the holidays. What made the drink even more perfect was the whipped cream and toppings. The latte offers a caramel brulee topping that enhances the taste of the caramel even more. 

2. Toasted White Chocolate Mocha Latte

Although it is the new drink on the scene, the Toasted White Chocolate Mocha Latte does not wait to be introduced. The strong scent of burnt sugar floats from the lid and into the air. By the first sip, the overwhelming taste of burnt sugar captures the taste buds. Soon, the taste of rich white chocolate does a sultry walk on the tongue. The white chocolate and the espresso were a match made in heaven. What is unique about the Toasted White Chocolate Mocha Latte is that it comes with a cranberry topping that offered a refreshing taste to the already rich drink.

3. Peppermint Mocha Latte

The Peppermint Mocha Latte is the “Mac Daddy” of all holiday drinks at Starbucks. Notorious for its peppermint and chocolate goodness, it lived up to expectations. The first ever taste that came to play was peppermint, and shortly after, the peppermint was smoothed out by the rich flavor of chocolate. The flavors wrestled together, each looking for dominance, but ultimately the peppermint won. Although both bold flavors fought for attention, they ended up perfectly paired with each other.

4. Chestnut Praline Latte

Even with the name Chestnut Praline, there was nothing “nutty” about this drink. Cinnamon came swirling through the air from the tiny opening of the lid. At first taste, there was a sweetness of brown sugar and cinnamon but these flavors soon fell away to the boldly brewed espresso. The espresso was the definite highlight of the show. After a couple more sips, the drink reminds one of a pecan pie: spicy and nutty. There was no strong taste of chestnut but rather a subtle hint of it.  The Chestnut Praline is the perfect drink for any coffee lover looking for a holiday flare without the overwhelming taste of sugar.