StarbucksWe weren't sure what to think of the new SBL at Starbucks (Smoked Butterscotch Latte, duh!) but we are actually pretty impressed.
The coffee chain dropped two new beverages today, so we taste-tested them.
For you, the people!
Also, we weren't quite sure what to make of these new beverage descriptions.
First up, the aforementioned Smoked Butterscotch Latte combines full-bodied espresso with steamed milk and Smoked Butterscotch sauce. It's topped with a sprinkling of Smokey Butterscotch Sugar.
Butterscotch is not something we expect to be subtle.
In fact, we thought this drink would be sickeningly, syrupy sweet—surprise: it wasn't!
The smokey element of this hot beverage is what we tasted the most, and the butterscotch was just a little sweet reward.
A little butterscotch goes a long way. Luckily, the coffee chain knew not to overdo it.
Moving onto their new tea offering...
Starbucks' second new drink available starting today is the Teavana Citrus Green Tea Latte (CGTL.)
The new green tea latte is billed as featuring "sweet, creamy lemon notes balanced by lush green tea."
The green tea is sweetened with citrus and mint, frothed with steamed milk, and has a lemon essence topping.
Our verdict?
Green tea lattes are definitely an acquired taste for many: some customers aren't into steamed milk + tea, while others swear by it.
Following our taste-test, we can report that the new CGTL blended those lemon and citrus notes just the right amount.
You can pick up on all of the flavors without being overpowered by lemon.
Despite both beverages being billed with some major flavor, neither will destroy your taste buds.
Starbucks has also debuted two new spicy sandwiches today: a Spicy Chorizo, Monterey Jack and Egg Breakfast Sandwich and also a Ancho-Chipotle Chicken Panini.
Hot. Damn.
Sorry, Starbucks Valentine's Day treats, we've already moved on with someone new.