In 2017, Starbucks released over 30 new drink combos. Many of them (read: almost all of them) were intentionally made for social media. I mean, you couldn't really have a Unicorn or a Christmas Tree Frappuccino without taking a photo and sharing it as proof. But with all the new drinks, baristas were still leaning on the same Signature Starbucks Espresso—the one that they've stood by for nearly 40 years—until today. Starting today, Starbucks has added a new espresso to its menu, the Blonde Espresso.
The Taste
The new, lighter espresso still has all the caffeine of the OG stuff, but has a slightly sweeter taste. It has citrusy notes of lemon, orange, and caramel. But don't get me wrong, it still tastes like coffee.
Admittedly, I'm not a huge fan general coffee flavor. I've always enjoyed it as a flavored latte or mixed with French Vanilla Coffe-Mate—"drinking it black like a cowboy," as my best friend likes to say, is not my jam. So, when I went to Starbs to try this stuff, my expectations weren't super high.
The barista had me sip the Signature Espresso and the Blonde Espresso straight; both were strong and made me wince a little inside, but I could tell there was a difference. Then, he had me try each of them as an Iced Americano (just espresso and water for the newbs), and I have to say, I liked the blonde. And there was no sugar or sweetener or cream in it at all!
Then, the barista made me two Caramel Macchiatos with each espresso (seriously, shoutout to Barista Mike). Both were delicious, but I instantly noticed that the blonde was way sweeter. The darker espresso flavor stood up against the caramel flavor, but the blonde flavor got kind of hidden in the sweetness. However, I was surprised to learn that because the Blonde Espresso is naturally sweeter, it's made with less syrup, aka less sugar and less calories.
How to Get It
Starbucks suggests for coffee newbs like me
From the type of milk, the type of sugar or syrup, to now, the type of espresso, your drink order is completely customizable. The Blonde Espresso will be available nationwide in participating stores at no additional cost.
Less sugar/sweeter taste
To get the Blonde Espresso in your drink, just order it that way. It's that simple. It's also worth mentioning that it's on the permanent menu, so if you fall in love with it, you can get it every single day.
Personally, I think everyone should give the Blonde Espresso a try. I mean, it is the newest espresso in roughly 40 years. When it takes that long to release sequel,
Starbucks suggests trying the Blonde Espresso in simple drinks like an Iced Coffee, a Flat White, or an Espresso Macchiato for a smooth coffee flavor without masking it in added sugar. They also suggest coffee newbs give it a try. If you've never been to a Starbucks before or are currently surviving on Refreshers alone to get you through the day, try it in a Vanilla Latte to get yourself started.
I know sequels don't usually have a good reputation, but I swear, this isn't like another "Insidious" movie. The espresso's caffeine content might keep you up at night, but you'll probably want to order this one again and again.