During my trip to NYC over the weekend for a conference, I thought I’d take the new experience as an opportunity to try Starbucks’ latest drink, the Iced Toasted Vanilla Oatmilk Shaken Espresso. Launched on March 1st, 2022, this new drink entered the Starbucks menu as part of its Spring selection – And it is GOOD!
Since I had already tried Starbucks’ Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso from one of my previous blog posts and loved it, I decided it was important for me to try this new shaken espresso that Starbucks has released for their Spring menu.
According to an article by Thrillist blogger Megan Schaltegger, “The Iced Toasted Vanilla Oatmilk Shaken Espresso promises a ‘twist on the classic vanilla flavor’ with Starbucks’ blonde espresso and notes of caramelized vanilla with smooth, creamy oat milk.”
If that description didn’t already sell you on this drink, continue reading for my overall review. Spoiler alert: It’s one of my new favorite go-to’s.
The Iced Toasted Vanilla Oatmilk Shaken Espresso
First Impressions
When looking at the reviews for this new Starbucks drink such as this one by Coffee At Three Blogger, Jee Choe, I was already setting my expectations high. I did not see one bad review about this drink, but more of unanimous blogger applause for this new Spring gem.
Released originally last year, this drink has made its comeback exactly a year after its first release date, and this time it is likely here to say. Just like their Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso, Starbucks plans to keep this one around, and I am here for it – Let me tell you why.
Review Breakdown
BITTERNESS: 9.0 – No harsh bitterness at all with this drink.
FLAVOR: 8.5 – The toasted and caramelized vanilla flavor paired with the blonde espresso makes this flavor my favorite so far out of all the Starbucks drinks I’ve had.
SWEETNESS: 7.0 – The sweetness is apparent due to the Vanilla but far from overpowering.
AFTERTASTE: 8.5 – The aftertaste is just as good as the flavor.
BALANCE: 10 – This drink receives a perfect rating for balance, and it deserves it.
OVERALL DRINK RATING: 8.6
Final thoughts on the Shamrock Macchiato
I’m the type of person who does NOT like when aspects of coffee’s are too overpowering – sweetness, bitterness, too much or too little flavor. When a drink strikes a perfect match between amazing favor and perfect balance, I can’t help but be impressed.
In comparison to last week’s review on Dunkin’s Shamrock Macchiato, I definitely preferred the more natural approach that Starbucks is taking with their Spring menu. Their success with this is demonstrated well in this drink.
It is safe to say that this is my favorite Starbucks drink I’ve ever had, and besides my Dunkin’ regular order, beats all other Dunkin’ coffees I’ve tried, too. I highly recommend this drink – Go get it! I’m hoping that Starbucks keeps this one around for a long time.
Come back next week for a new brew, new review!
Next week, I will be reviewing a Dunkin’ drink that I haven’t tried yet. Dunkin’ still has my heart, so I’m hoping that next weeks drink is finally a win!
