Christmas Drinks at Starbucks, Costa and Caffè Nero

It’s that time of year again: the cafés of England have launched their Christmas drinks for 2016.

With Christmas cups in every hand and a wealth of options to choose from, we are spoilt for choice.

Starbucks, Costa Coffee and Caffè Nero have gone above and beyond, but which drinks are actually worth trying?

With over twenty options between the three cafés, the choice can be a bit overwhelming if you don’t know what you’re looking for.

DESIblitz has explored the different ranges and picked out the best options available, no matter your preference.

Starbucks

Known for its festive range, Starbucks has brought back the classics for 2016.

If you liked the Christmas drinks range from previous years then you’ll like it this year, but it’s not quite as exciting as some of the other options out there.

Toffee Nut Latte: This latte is a staple of the festive range. It’s as sweet as a normal caramel latte with a subtle nuttiness to give it that festive feel. It’s quite safe so if you’re not too sure about the Christmas range, this is a great place to start.

Gingerbread Latte: Another staple of the Christmas drinks; sweet and sharp with ginger, it’s a strong flavour reminiscent of biscuits and brandy snaps. You only need to close your eyes and you’re raiding the biscuit tin on Christmas morning.

Eggnog Latte: This thick and creamy coffee is a bit of an acquired taste but one that’s worth a go. Heavier and sweeter than a traditional coffee, it’s the heartiest option for a winter warmer.

Fudge Hot Chocolate: If you want something even richer than an ordinary hot chocolate, this is the one for you. Thick and chocolatey with the added sweetness of fudge, this is dessert in a cup.

So, if you’re a fan of keeping it classic with your flavours, Starbucks could be the one for you.

For the full Starbucks Christmas Range, click here.

Costa Coffee

Costa has gone all out for the festive season in 2016. Every drink is either a new creation or an interesting twist on previous years.

If you’re in the mood to experiment with your Christmas drinks, Costa is the place to be.

Salted Caramel Cappuccino: Now, in 2015, Costa brought out the luscious salted caramel latte and now they’ve taken it a step further. The light froth takes the edge off the sweetness of the caramel so this one’s perfect if you want something a bit lighter.

Honeycomb Latte: If you can’t decide whether you want a chocolate bar or a coffee, this is the drink for you. Deliciously sweet and topped with crunchy honeycomb, it’s a snack and a drink in one. To summarise, Maria says: “It’s lovely.”

Lindt Hot Chocolate: This is the one everyone’s been talking about. Costa has partnered with Lindt to bring out a hot chocolate which is smoother, silkier and more decadent in every way than the ordinary; this is hot chocolate luxury.

Gingerbread Latte: One of the classics of a cafe Christmas range, this tangy coffee puts itself a step ahead of the Starbucks version by coming topped with a tasty little gingerbread man for the perfect festive touch.

So, if it’s unique flavours and new twists on old favourites you’re after, Costa might be the one for you.

For the full Costa Christmas Range, click here.

Caffè Nero

Caffè Nero has found a unique way to present their Christmas range.

Instead of producing a selection of set drinks, they have come up with individual flavour which can be added to coffee or hot chocolate for a unique level of customisation.

Praline: This is the one which tastes like all the best chocolates in the selection box. Its velvety texture and rich, nutty flavour are the perfect addition to a hot chocolate for a deluxe treat on a snowy day.

Spiced Orange: This is the perfect drink to keep you warm. Aromatic spices and sharp orange give the flavour of a cup of mulled wine to any drink. It’s another one for the hot chocolate, to make you think of unwrapping countless chocolate oranges on Christmas morning.

Tiramisu: Here’s one for the coffee fans. Add this creamy flavour to your latte and you’ll swear you’re enjoying coffee and dessert after dinner. The perfect way to add a touch of indulgence to your morning coffee.

Salted Caramel: Another classic for those who want to add a little something extra to their latte but don’t want to go overboard. The sweetness of the caramel is enhanced by the touch of salt and topped off with a gooey caramel sauce.

So, if you’re after customisation and freedom of choice with your favourites, or you want the same flavour in multiple forms, Caffè Nero is the one for you.

For the full Caffè Nero Christmas Range, click here.

The three cafés have pulled out all the stops with their Christmas drinks for 2016. There is a good mix of old classics and brand new experiments and some drinks a little in between.

There’s something for everyone in the festive drinks this 2016 – you just have to know what you’re looking for.