Seasonal Sips

A review of the Starbucks 2019 fall beverage lineup

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Peyton Sims

Photo illustration. The 2019 fall season sports three specialty drinks, from classics like the Pumpkin Spice Latte to newcomers like the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew.  

Story by Molly Kyles, editor in chief

Frost on car windows and the subtle chill in the air can only mean one thing: autumn is upon us. The dawn of fall sends people in droves to Starbucks for a festive drink to spice up their spirit. The 2019 fall season sports three specialty drinks, from classics like the Pumpkin Spice Latte to newcomers like the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew.  

But the age old question remains: What is the best autumn drink on the menu? Well search no further, this is your definitive review for all things seasonal coffee.

1. Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew

They say you can’t buy happiness, but Starbucks has proven that you actually can with the masterpiece that is the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew. The chill of fall hardly suggests a cold beverage, but this drink is a glaring exception to this rule. Smooth and creamy, this new drink is an instant favorite. The drink consists of a base of cold brew and vanilla syrup topped with a decadent pumpkin cream and pumpkin spice, creating the perfect balance of sweet and bitter. This drink is the best thing that has happened to Starbucks, and quite possibly the best thing that has happened to the world.

2. Pumpkin Spice Latte 

There is no drink as iconic to Starbucks as the Pumpkin Spice Latte, or PSL. This drink has always been the center of attention, both positive and negative. It’s found both widespread endorsements from celebrities like Taylor Swift and Katy Perry and criticism from comedians like John Oliver and Iliza Shlesinger. A single sip of this espresso and steamed milk concoction instantly evokes a feeling of peace and safety, not unlike Thanksgiving at Grandma’s, but with less family drama. Available hot, iced or as a frappuccino, this beverage is truly perfect for all temperatures. 

3. Salted Caramel Mocha

While the Salted Caramel Mocha does indeed contain coffee, you’d never guess it. The intense chocolate-caramel flavor is heavy and rich, and tastes more like a hot chocolate than anything else. If Swiss Miss married Werther’s, this drink would be their lovechild. Fans of classic black coffee best beware, this drink is not for you. But if you’re new to coffee and want a festive and cozy option that’ll still deliver on the caffeine, give it a shot!

When all is said and done, it’s hard to go wrong when it comes to these seasonal sips. It’s the atmosphere these beverages provide that make them so great, and all of these drinks are best enjoyed with a friend. Fans of pumpkin and caramel, enjoy these drinks while they last, and fans of peppermint, do not fret, winter is on its way.