Starbucks Introduces Its First Coffee-Infused Craft Beer

Starbucks is consistently pushing the envelope when it comes to new drink concepts.

Recently, we put you on to the seven most caffeinated drinks on the Starbucks’ menu, but now, it looks like an espresso-infused craft beer will soon become a part of the Starbucks drink family.

The Espresso Cloud IPA is Starbucks’ newest and most experimental beverage to date.

Conceptualized by coffee master Justin Burns-Beach, the Espresso Cloud IPA is named aptly due to its unique mixing process. This aesthetically appealing drink boasts a light, velvety soft appearance, with a vibrant amber tone.

By shaking ice, a shot of espresso, pieces of oranges and Starbucks Classic Syrup, a cloud-like micro-foam is created.  Then, the foam is “layered on top of a freshly poured IPA, and the beer is served with the cold-shaken espresso shot on the side,” according to Pike1912, Starbuck’s company blog.

The cold-shaken espresso can also be added to the IPA, creating another beautiful layer of citrus and vanilla infused micro-foam.

Burns-Beach took inspiration for the Espresso Cloud IPA from the mixing process behind Starbucks’ Shakerato, which is 2 shots of espresso, one teaspoon of Starbucks Classic Syrup, shaken and served over ice.

“This is really exciting, because first of all, something like this has never been created for Starbucks and it just blows my mind.” — Justin Burns Beach, Coffee Master & creator of The Espresso Cloud IPA 

For years, Starbucks has not-so-secretly been selling beer and wine in more than 300 locations in the United States, Canada and The United Kingdom, according to Fortune.

Since 2010, Starbucks locations in Seattle have been promoting Starbucks’ Evenings program, where baristas serve craft beer and wine, along with other small plates. Check if your local Starbucks promotes their Evenings program here.

Last year, CNN Money reported that by 2020, “the company hopes to have beer and wine on the menu at 2,000 of its 12,000 coffee shops in America.”

It’s safe to say Starbucks will keep people wired for the wait, as locations nationwide begin incorporating more adult beverages in store.

Bottoms up!