Each year during Halloween, Starbucks releases a themed Frappuccino that sends fans rushing to get their fix. This year joining the ranks is the Witch's Brew Créme Frappuccino.
So what is it?
The drink is a vivid purple concoction of "Toad's Breath" laced with "Bat Warts" (chia seeds) topped with a dusting of "Lizard Scales" (green-colored sugar).
Walking back to my dorm, my eyes fixated on the drink and my mind filled with questions. Is it worth the price? Why is it so purple? What does it taste like? Here are the answers to those questions. If you're willing to spare $5.45 + tax on a drink, then yes you should try it. But, if you're like the most of us, then you're not missing out on too much: I'll fill you in.
What does it taste like?
Without any prior knowledge of the drink's contents, one would assume that the drink would be grape flavored due to its intense purple hue. However, looks are deceiving. The color actually comes from the food coloring mixed into the frappuccino. The drink itself is reminiscent of a melting orange creamsicle on a hot summer's day.
Unlike other frappes, it's less icy and more watery which adds to the "juicy" taste that Starbucks intended. But, the chia seeds are entirely unexpected.
What are Chia Seeds?
Normally found in health-foods such as smoothies, overnight oats, and kombucha. Nutrient-rich chia seeds are packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, protein, and antioxidants. They absorb any flavor that they're soaked in and they have a gelatinous outside with a crunchy seed in the middle. The seeds are definitely a hit or miss; if you don't like them then they can be off-putting, but if you do then this drink is for you!
So, is Starbucks following the health trend?
Just because there are chia seeds in it does not make this drink healthy at all! From the Frappula to the Zombie Frappucino and now the Witches Brew, what hasn't changed is the sickly sweet taste of these Halloween drinks. The most frightening part of this drink is the sugar content. The recommended daily sugar intake is from 25 - 38 grams a day and this drink, boasting 53g of sugar, is one of the sweetest drinks in Starbucks' history!
Overall, the drink didn't exceed my expectations, but that isn't new. Since the Unicorn Frappuccino released last year, Starbucks has focused on creating Instagram worthy drinks and less on the actual flavor.
Maybe next year, Starbucks might release an actually scary drink. The 'Midterm' Macchiato.