In Japan, Starbucks is more than just a global coffeehouse chain; it’s a unique experience that blends international appeal with local flavors. Among its offerings are 15 exclusive “Starbucks Tea & Cafe” locations scattered across the country. These standalone stores focus on an extensive range of teas, providing customers with unique menu items that can’t be found in regular Starbucks outlets, such as Tea Lattes and Tea Frappuccinos.
With the arrival of autumn, Starbucks has unveiled a new Frappuccino, available from 4 September at its regular branches. Alongside this, the Starbucks Tea & Cafe stores are launching their own exclusive seasonal drinks, featuring two distinctly Japanese beverages.
A Taste of Japan: Chestnut and Black Tea Creations
The first of these new offerings is the Japanese Chestnut and Japanese Black Tea Mousse Tea Latte. Priced at 678 yen (US$4.68) for takeout and 690 yen for dine-in, this drink is available both iced and hot.
The star of this latte is the “waguri,” or Japanese chestnut, known for its sweeter and nuttier flavor compared to chestnuts from other regions. In Japan, chestnuts are a key ingredient in Mont Blanc, a beloved autumn dessert that features sponge cake topped with swirls of chestnut cream. This new Tea Latte aims to replicate that dessert experience, featuring a chestnut-flavored mousse and swirls of chestnut paste atop the drink.
The base of the latte is made with Japanese black tea sourced from Kagoshima Prefecture. This tea is celebrated for its gentle aroma and delicate taste, a result of the unique local climate. Special roasting techniques enhance the flavor, making it a perfect match for milk and the rich taste of Japanese chestnuts. The combination creates a drink that feels like enjoying Mont Blanc alongside a comforting cup of milk tea.
Frappuccino with a Japanese Twist
For those who prefer a chilled treat, Starbucks also introduces the Japanese Chestnuts and Japanese Black Tea Frappuccino. This drink, available for 776 yen for takeout and 790 yen for dine-in, offers a refreshing twist on the flavors found in the Tea Latte.
The Frappuccino features the same key ingredients, but blended with more ice for a cool, invigorating experience. Instead of the chestnut mousse, it’s topped with whipped cream, providing a creamy contrast to the icy blend beneath. As with the latte, a sprinkling of Japanese black tea powder on top adds an extra layer of aroma and flavor. Customers can choose to enjoy the Frappuccino at full strength or mix in the tea powder for a more mellow taste.
Limited-Time Indulgence
These new beverages are available only for a limited time, from 4 September to 31 October, at Starbucks Tea & Cafe branches across Japan. This exclusive offering provides a delightful reason to visit one of these rare locations, where you can enjoy drinks as unique as the stores themselves.
Whether you’re a fan of traditional Japanese flavors or simply looking for a unique Starbucks experience, these new seasonal drinks are sure to offer something special for everyone.
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