Starbucks
Iced Oleato Shaken Espresso

Roaster Location: Seattle, Washington

• 

  Theo Chan, Managing Editor

  1854 roasts rated, avg score of 4.31

  2.50 - Average

  4.50 - Aroma

  3.00 - Finish

  4.50 - Flavor

  4.00 - Acidity

  1.00 - Balance

  Show moreless

  Before I proceed, let me share my adoration for the oleato concept which I really enjoyed on occasion in Northern Italy. These unique blends, crafted with quality olive oil, render a harmonious balance of smoothness and spice, which can be truly extraordinary when executed correctly.
  
  Starbucks has long been known for its innovative, sometimes daring, beverage offerings in the world of coffee. I rarely feel Starbucks mis-engineers something, but the Iced Oleato Caff Latte with Oatmilk, serves they can sometimes miss the mark. I actually love that they're trying this concept, even though it's a complete longshot for adoption in my opinion.
  
  The Oleato Golden Foam Cold Brew is a testament to this potential (my editorial review here: https://coffeeroast.com/roaster/starbucks/oleato-golden-foam-cold-brew). However, the same magic is, unfortunately, missing in their Iced Oleato Caff Latte with Oatmilk.
  
  My experience with this beverage began at a Starbucks outlet in Waltham, on a day when I was in a high-calorie mood and heading to a rugby match. The suggestion to try the oleato latte iced seemed appealing, especially considering my previous pleasant experience with the Golden Foam Cold Brew.
  
  The disappointment, however, was swift. After a brief pause for errands, I returned to find the beverage had morphed into a cold, oily concoction, where layers of oil had separated, presenting an unappetizing sight and a less than delightful texture (see photos).
  
  While the Partanna olive oil, known for its intense flavor profile and grassy undertones, might seem like the culprit here, it's not the core issue. It's the implementation of the concept that falls flat. The intermingling of icy coldness and robust olive oil, which should have been harmonious, instead becomes unpleasant texture-wise, transforming a potential delight into an unwelcome mouthful.
  
  In its current state, the Iced Oleato Caff Latte with Oatmilk should not remain a part of the Starbucks menu - hot is fine. Its idea may hold potential, but its execution needs revisiting and refinement. The beautifully complex notes promised by this drink can be better experienced and appreciated in the Oleato Golden Foam Cold Brew.

  Cupping Method:Starbucks in Waltham, MA

  

  3 years ago · See more from Theo