It has been quite the year for Starbucks, marked by plenty of change with new CEO Brian Niccols at the helm—some good (like, hello, the latest merch drop) and some...not so much (don't be shy Bri, bring back the 25-star bonus for reusable cups). Thankfully, though, the Seattle-based coffee giant's latest news is positive!
Just last week, Starbucks introduced a lineup of new (and improved!) Frappuccinos. After teasing the flavors for over a month and dropping its limited-edition Firework Frapp, we finallyyyyy got our hands on the blended bevvys: a Brown Sugar Strato Frappuccino, Salted Caramel Mocha Strato Frappuccino, and the Strawberry Matcha Strato Frappuccino.
ICYMI, the "strato" is what makes these so different from the rest of Starbucks Frapp menu. Why? How?? They're layered with cold foam throughout for a creamy and flavorful twist on the classic drink. Naturally, as the dedicated service journalist I am, I had to try the Strato Frappuccinos. For research!
What Are The Flavors Of The New Strato Frappuccinos?
Before we get into my thoughts (and yes, I have a lot), let's discuss what makes each of these drinks so unique. K? Okay! The Salted Caramel Mocha Strato Frapp has layers of mocha frapp with a salted caramel cream cold foam and caramel sauce drizzle, while the Strawberry Matcha Strato swirls together a matcha cream Frappuccino with strawberry cream cold foam. The third and final new addition, The Brown Sugar Strato Frappuccino, is a combo of brown sugar cream cold foam, cinnamon powder, and the chain's signature coffee Frapp. NGL, I'm not a huge frapp girlie, but these sold me from the description alone.
What Do The Starbucks Strato Frappuccinos Taste Like?
Now, look, this isn’t going to replace your ritual black coffee in the morning. But they are a perf sweet treat, especially in the summer. The Brown Sugar Strato felt like the most classic Frapp with notes of sweet cinnamon and a creamier base, while the Salted Caramel version felt like straight-up dessert. Not in a bad way, though. It’s giving chocolate-salted caramel milkshake.
The Strawberry Matcha Strato Frappuccino felt the most unique and stood out as my personal fave. (You might be able to chalk some of that up to the fact that I've been drinking iced strawberry matcha lattes all summer long.) The strawberry cold foam is subtle and sweet without tasting too sugary or artificial, while the matcha has a smooth and creamy base with just enough sweetness of its own to complement the foam. The pairing? Oh so refreshing.
The only downside? These aren't a forever fixture on menus. At least these Strato flavors. All three are part of the seasonal summer lineup and are sticking around "while supplies last." So, um, don't wait to give 'em a try for yourself.
