Pay no attention to the calendar.
Autumn starts when Starbucks says it starts.
And that’s today, the launch of the coffee juggernaut’s Pumpkin Spice Latte season.
Twenty-one years ago, back in aught-3, on a day that should go down in brand marketing history, Starbucks introduced the Pumpkin Spice Latte and set off a fall beverage revolution. Now, virtually every shop that sells coffee — from 7-Eleven to indie roasters — offers some version of the PSL or other fall-flavored drinks.
Besides the PSL, the Starbucks menu features the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, the Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte and autumn’s companion flavors, a new New Iced Apple Crisp Nondairy Cream Chai, Apple Crisp Oatmilk Shaken Espresso and the Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato.
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In the bakery case, look for the return of last year’s Baked Apple Croissant and a longtime customer favorite, the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffin. The Pumpkin & Pepita Loaf is available year-round.
What if you’re one of those who doesn’t like to drink pumpkin coffees until autumn actually arrives?
Mark Saturday, Sept. 22, on your calendar.
