In the world of Starbucks, the holiday season officially begins on Nov. 6 when the popular chain releases both new and classic themed drinks to celebrate the upcoming holiday season. With the switch of seasons and drinks, we decided to pay the West- field Starbucks a visit and try their top three winter drinks. Regardless of the festive packaging, we set out to see if these themed additions were a holiday hit or miss.

Our first beverage of choice, the Eggnog Latte, was a disappointment. While merrily packaged in a festive cup, its contents proved to be less than satisfactory. Upon the first sniff, we were met with a vague scent of nutmeg overpowered by a strong scent of egg. Unbeknownst to us, the milky and inviting layer of foam contradicted the actual smell and taste. The usual flavor of coffee clouded by a bitter taste of egg resulted in a 2/10 rating and was a disappointing play on a classic holiday drink.

Next, we sampled the Caramel Brûlée Latte, which proved to be a holiday delight. Upon opening the lid, we were met with the pleasant smell of caramel and cinnamon. While resembling the dispiriting Eggnog Latte, our taste buds were rejuvenated with this drink’s subtle sweet and smooth taste alongside the ideal temperature and presentation. In the end, we were satisfied with the Caramel BrûléeLatte,ratingitasolid8/10asit left us eager to embrace the very premature holiday spirit that Starbucks is notorious for.

Lastly, we sampled a Chestnut Praline Latte. Even though it looked like over-milked coffee, and didn’t have foam glossing over the top, it gave a similar cinnamon taste as the Caramel Brûlée Latte. As far as taste is concerned, it could easily be mistaken for the average cup of overpriced Starbucks coffee, but instead, it had a muted and mellow sweetly spiced nut undertone. Overall, this latte was by far our favorite with an overall rating of 9/10. We recommend that anyone purchase this cup of holiday spirit themselves. 

Each year Starbucks’ holiday drinks make the season just a little bit more festive. While the Eggnog Latte was, unfortunately, a miss, we recommend the Caramel Brulée Latte and the Chestnut Praline Latte to brighten your holiday spirit and bring a taste of holiday joy.