What is a handcrafted drink at starbucks?

Starbucks doesn't officially categorize drinks as "handcrafted" in the same way they might a specific pastry. However, many of their drinks require significant barista skill and customization, making them effectively handcrafted experiences. The level of "handcrafting" is subjective and depends on the complexity of the drink and the barista's skill.

To illustrate, let's consider a Chai Tea Latte as an example of a handcrafted Starbucks drink:

• Customization: While a standard Chai Tea Latte exists on the menu, its "handcrafted" aspect comes from the many ways a customer can personalize it. They can adjust the temperature (hot, iced, or blended), the amount of chai concentrate (stronger or weaker), the type of milk (dairy, non-dairy, oat, soy, etc.), the amount of sweetener (syrups, sugar, honey), and even add extra flavor shots (vanilla, caramel, etc.). This degree of personalization is what sets it apart from a pre-packaged beverage.

• Barista Skill: Making a truly excellent Chai Tea Latte requires skill in properly steaming the milk to achieve the desired texture (microfoam), layering the drink to create a visually appealing presentation, and balancing the flavors according to customer preferences. A skilled barista will go the extra mile to ensure the drink is perfectly balanced and delicious.

• Variations: Even beyond the standard customization options, experienced baristas might be able to help you create unique variations on the Chai Tea Latte (e.g., adding spices like cinnamon or cardamom, incorporating seasonal flavors). This demonstrates further the handcrafted nature of the drink—it's not just about following a recipe; it's about creating a customized beverage experience.

Therefore, while there isn't a specific "handcrafted" menu section, drinks like Chai Tea Lattes, handcrafted Frappuccinos (with personalized additions), and even expertly crafted espresso drinks (macchiatos, cappuccinos, etc.) can all be considered handcrafted depending on the barista's skill and the degree of customization involved.