Whether there is snow on the ground or just that seemingly never ending grey period, the winter months can drag on and on. Even though spring-like days can occasionally come, people want something warm, comforting, and a little juicy. Thirsty for the new Blackberry Sage Refreshers and Midnight Drink?
Starbucks has been highlighting its Refreshers line through its innovative flavors. While some people will never stray from that simple Americano, Cappuccino, or other classic coffee offerings, others want complexity, creative flavor combinations, and something new in the cup.
Since the Refreshers line lend themselves to switching up flavors with the seasons, the food brand embraces that option. From the spice forward lemonade drinks from last year to the its first ever bursting pearls in the blue drinks, many people could not wait to sip, snap, and share that first taste.
Starting on February 4, the new Blackberry Sage Refresher, Blackberry Sage Lemonade Refresher and Midnight Drink join the menu for a limited time. According to the company, the flavor launch is meant to be both comforting and invigorating. Even on the coldest, dreary winter day, these drinks are a burst of brightness.
While blackberry is a familiar flavor, the introduction of a herbaceous note is a new option for Starbucks. Fruit and herbs are common across the food and beverage world, but it does not necessarily dominate in the chain restaurant space.
Speaking about the flavor experience with these drinks, Billy Altieri, lead beverage developer for Starbucks, said, “Imagine you’re walking through a garden you’re smelling fresh herbs and then berries. That’s really what you’re getting with this beverage – a balance of subtle notes of sage and sweet blackberry flavors.”
While the two Refreshers drinks are self-explanatory, the Midnight Drink is a little more complicated. That drink features “sweet blackberries and sage with green coffee extract and blackberry inclusions mixed with coconutmilk and shaken with ice.” It is a creamy, caffeinated punch that can start the day or be a mid-afternoon break. The creaminess of the coconutmilk feels indulgent, but it can fall into a balanced lifestyle.
Cocktail enthusiasts will happily sip on one of these Refreshers. Blackberry and sage can be paired with a multitude of liquor options. Although not condoned by Starbucks, the Blackberry Sage Lemonade Refresher with a shot of bourbon would be delicious.
Whether Starbucks is trying to lean into people’s thirst for fruit forward beverages, the popularity of mocktails, or something else, remains to be seen. But, it is clear that the company wants to continue to balance coffee beverages with fruit forward choices. When a menu has variety, it keeps guests coming back for another order.
The new Blackberry Sage Refresher, Blackberry Sage Lemonade Refresher and Midnight Drink will be available in stores on February 4. Check with locations for availability and pricing.