With the new year, Starbucks launched its newest addition to American and Canadian stores: the flat white. This espresso-based beverage is described as “bolder than a latte, yet smoother than a cappuccino” and has already been a staple in Australian and UK locations.
According to the Starbucks site, the flat white is made up of “expertly steamed milk poured over ristretto shots of espresso and finished with a Starbucks signature dot.”
Be warned frappuccino fans, this drink is nothing like the sugary creation the chain is known for. Instead it’s an attempt to break in to the artisan coffee movement and bring new customers to the brand.
The Starbucks rendition may not satisfy true flat white aficionados, but it certainly makes the Australia-based drink more accessible to the everyday coffee drinker. Next time you’re in Starbucks, see if this drink is on the menu and taste what all the hype is about.
Image courtesy of Starbucks
Here’s what people are saying:
If you love hot milk water then you’ll love @starbucks‘ new flat white. Which is also the title of my new autobiography.
— Bryson Leach (@brysonjleach) January 21, 2015
Holy Carp. Tried the new Flat White at #starbucks and it’s actually good. Not as good as the Aussies make, but good.
— Josh Marinacci (@joshmarinacci) January 21, 2015
We tried Starbucks’ new flat white. That ristretto, tho: http://t.co/QjNGygrQdD pic.twitter.com/BlzHUgruav
— Thrillist (@Thrillist) January 15, 2015
.@Starbucks Flat White: the worst latte you have ever had. Real Flat Whites: manna from heaven.#terribleisanunderstatement
— Stephanie Chase (@acornsandnuts) January 14, 2015
PSA: Starbucks has a new drink called Flat White. It is exactly how it sounds. No-go, unless you like milk with a shot of espresso.
— emily ♡ (@_ScherzoDiNotte) January 6, 2015