Seasonal exclusive graces the menu for a limited time, proving pumpkin spice isn’t dead in Japan.

For Starbucks customers in the U.S., the Pumpkin Spice Latte has been going strong as an autumn special for 23 years, but here in Japan, it’s still a baby, having only become a regular seasonal addition since 2021.

So although customers overseas may be tiring of the flavour, with some claiming pumpkin spice is dead as people turn to other trending drinks like matcha, here in Japan customers still have a strong thirst for it. In fact, it remains so popular that the beverage is making its return for another season, in hot and iced versions, with members of the Starbucks Rewards program getting an early taste of it on 29 September, a day ahead of its official release.

▼ The Pumpkin Spice Latte is available in Short through to Venti sizes, priced from 550-680 yen (US$3.50-4.33).

As always, the drink is inspired by the flavors of pumpkin pie, combining the gentle sweetness of the autumnal vegetable with warming spices, and a dash of nutmeg as a flourishing finish. A good serving of milk adds a smooth richness to the mix, creating a mellow flavour that’s ideal for colder nights and shorter days.

It’s nice to see the Pumpkin Spice Latte returning to the menu, because although matcha is popular here, pumpkin spice has an overseas quality that makes it a unique novelty for Japanese customers. It’ll be particularly special to get a taste of it while kicking back in one of the country’s newest and most interesting stores, but as always, it’ll only be on the menu for a limited time through autumn.

Source, images: Press release  
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