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Celebrating 30 Years of Starbucks in Japan: The New Caramel Macchiato

Starbucks Coffee Japan has reached a significant milestone as it celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. To mark this occasion, they are launching the new Caramel Macchiato on April 17. The launch aligns perfectly with the brand's fresh narrative, encapsulated in the phrase "Coffee is more than just a drink. - Why Not Coffee?" This campaign aims to integrate coffee into various moments of daily life, reflecting different moods and settings.

The Caramel Macchiato has been a beloved signature beverage for Starbucks since it was first introduced in Japan in 1999. Back then, espresso drinks were not mainstream; hence, this drink helped demystify and popularize espresso beverages. As we celebrate 30 years of connection to this beverage, the Caramel Macchiato has evolved to become a comforting choice during busy times, offering a moment of relaxation amidst the hustle and bustle of life.

Redefining a Classic

The revamped Caramel Macchiato welcomes back the much-loved flavor with a refined twist. The drink now features a fluffy texture accentuated by a bittersweet caramel undertone, creating a delightful harmony that is both satisfying and refreshing. Updates to the recipe include an improved caramel sauce and a new vanilla bean-flavored syrup designed to complement the rich espresso and milk.

The balance of the caramel sauce enhances the inherent bitterness while evoking the nostalgic aroma reminiscent of handcrafted caramel. The adjustments made to the recipe ensure a seamless integration with the robust, dark-roasted espresso, resulting in a drink that is as delicious as it is comforting.

A New Style for Iced Caramel Macchiato

Starbucks has also innovated the iced version of the Caramel Macchiato, introducing a layered structure that showcases a fluffy mousse form atop vanilla bean-infused milk. This new style allows customers to enjoy a beautifully balanced blend of textures and flavors as they sip straight from the cup, blending the refreshing layers perfectly.

As patrons indulge in the smooth mousse and the richness of caramel combined with espresso, they can savor the delightful contrast that evokes the essence of summer. This drink is perfectly crafted for those gentle moments when one seeks comfort without being overwhelmed by sweetness.

Craftsmanship Behind the Barista

Creating the Caramel Macchiato is where Starbucks baristas exhibit their expertise. The steaming of milk demands precision to achieve a dense and creamy foam that harmonizes beautifully with the espresso and syrup, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the drink. Customers can look forward to the expertly artful crosshatch pattern created with the caramel sauce, not only enhancing the visual but also the taste experience.

Price and Availability

The new Caramel Macchiato will be available in various sizes, both for takeout and in-store. Prices range from 530 yen for a Short takeout to 658 yen for a Venti. The launch is planned for April 17, 2026, and will be available year-round, although there may be temporary shortages in certain stores.

A Deeper Connection to Coffee

"Coffee is more than just a drink. - Why Not Coffee?" reflects the brand’s perception of coffee as an integral part of life’s moments, whether celebrating joy or finding solace. As we embark on this new chapter, Starbucks is committed to introducing a variety of beverages that resonate with diverse experiences, paving the way for a deeper connection to coffee.

Additionally, Starbucks will present a special brand movie revealing heartfelt moments connected by coffee. This film will debut on April 17 as part of the new campaign.

Enhance Your Experience with Music

To complement the Caramel Macchiato experience, exclusive record-themed coasters will be available at participating stores. These coasters will feature QR codes linking to curated playlists selected by various artists, including the popular emotional artist TENDRE, who will release an original song befitting the campaign's theme.

TENDRE expresses, "Having previously worked at Starbucks, I have a personal connection to this brand and its ethos. Creating music for this anniversary campaign is a unique opportunity to celebrate the memories intertwined with coffee."

With its innovative approach to coffee, Starbucks continues to engage customers in meaningful ways, evolving their experiences while honoring the traditions of coffee culture. Don't miss out on this new Caramel Macchiato and the fresh contemporary flavors that accompany it.

For more information, visit the official Starbucks Coffee Japan website.