Starbucks Pays Homage To Milan With Their Newest Drink, The “Cordusio”

Amid some controversy from Italians who don’t want to see them around, Starbucks has finally gotten their first location in the country up and running. The new Reserve Roastery, located in Milan’s Piazza Cordusio, has also inspired a brand new beverage other parts of the world are now getting a chance to try.

Photo courtesy of Starbucks

The “Cordusio,” named after the Roastery’s location, is a tribute to the flavors of Milan-style espresso drinks. The combination of espresso, steamed milk, mocha sauce, and cocoa powder serves as the chain’s take on Barbagliata, a cocoa-flavored espresso served with cream that originated in Italy’s fashion capital.

Starbucks is selling the Cordusio in the US, Mexico, Peru, and Europe while supplies last. Since this international-inspired beverage was available in the area, I went to go sample it for myself.

Photo: Foodbeast // Constantine Spyrou

Having been to Milan in the past, the Cordusio’s taste was a bit nostalgic, as it came pretty close to the flavor of the Barbagliatas I drank while visiting there. The chocolate taste is a lot stronger in Starbucks’ version, and the addition of the sugary mocha syrup cuts the bitterness to a level below that of the strong espressos of Milan. Still, its flavor is an adequate mimicry of the original, and does Milan’s signature drink an appropriate amount of justice.

I don’t think it can help Starbucks make up with the Italians who don’t want it there, but it is a solid espresso drink.