Mini Review: Starbucks Tea Time

by julie on January 7, 2009

Starbucks’ newest line is full-leaf tea, by Tazo. You can get it two different ways: in an infusion (in juice) or as a latte (in milk). There are a couple of flavors– chai tea with apple or berry juice or milk and black, vanilla rooibos or earl grey tea in milk.

I got the earl grey (“London Fog Latte”) yesterday, and went back for a free Vanilla Rooibos latte today. I love the slightly floral, slightly citrusy flavor of earl grey, so that was a big hit with me. The vanilla rooibos (roy-bus) is slightly fruity with a hint of vanilla– very subtle but very good. At 120 calories for a tall with skim milk, it’s a good bet for an afternoon treat. I’m skipping the juice-based drinks, as if I want fruit, I tend to actually eat the fruit and skip the juice.

Are any locally-owned coffee shops doing something similar? I wish there was a local coffee shop in Mason, but alas, I’m stuck with Starbucks.

  • http://savingincincinnati.wordpress.com/ Sarah

    The juice ones sound really good – I’ll have to give that a try!

  • http://blog.birdofparadox.com Birdofparadox

    I loved London Fog, too! Good even with soy.

  • http://www.joebuddejr.com Joe Budde Jr.

    Kidd Coffee is the local shop in mason! One of its locations is right down the street from me. They have locations sprouting up all over the area as well!

    http://www.kiddcoffee.com/locations.htm

  • http://www.blogencommun.fr/cafe-bar/ cafe paris

    Starbucks is a big company, i really like their coffee, except espresso ;-)

  • Bridget

    Bridgetown has a wonderful coffee house… (yes, the west side). It is called “Zen and Now”!

    My favorite is the “Gingerbread Latte”! Perfect blend! I always take a bit of fresh ground Sumatran home with me.

    P.S. I enjoy your blog!

  • http://www.wine-girl.net Michelle

    I swear by the Bean Haus in Covington. Free wireless and the best tea in the area. They have a countless number of loose leaf teas from whence they make me an amazing tea latte, with real tea leaves (did I mention that?), skim milk, and they always ask: “Do you want me to add a little bit of vanilla to that? How about honey? It makes everything better.” I just happily nod. Until recently, the chai tea lattes at Starbucks were made from a powder, which just doesn’t compare. I’m glad they’ve upgraded their tea offerings.

  • http://winemedinemecincinnati.com julie

    Joe– I will try them. Soon. I just have to figure out where exactly they are. I get so lost in Mason.

    Bridget– I used to live in Westwood and spent a LOT of time at Zen and Now (does the hippie guy still own it?) and Front Porch. Now I never get over to the west side.

    Michelle– I’ll try their teas! I always get coffee, but I’m on a tea kick. It’s weird.. I go through periods where I’m into beer and tea, and then periods when I’m into coffee and wine. I just wish Bean Haus had a location near my work. :)

  • JulieToo

    It’s not a coffee shop, but the teas at Essencha in Oakley are amazing. All whole-leaf, steeped at just the right temperature for just the right time. Lots of rooibos (Comfort & Joy is very good), lots of great greens and whites and blacks. Check out one of their tastings.

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