The surprising history behind one of Starbucks’ most beloved holiday drinks

Starbucks has been dropping holiday drinks every season for over two decades now, but one beverage in particular has stood the test of time: the beloved Peppermint Mocha.

After releasing the Peppermint Mocha in 2002 as part of one of their seasonal drops, the beverage quickly became a sensation amongst Starbucks fans across Canada and the United States. Once again, it’s back for the holidays, but have you ever wondered how it rose to its level of fame in the first place?

The history behind Starbucks’ Peppermint Mocha

In an email to Curiocity, the company shared that following the launch of the Gingerbread Latte in 2000, Starbucks’ Research and Development team was exploring ideas for a new holiday beverage.

“The team tried a few different flavours that would resonate with customers during the holiday, including an idea for a white chocolate cranberry beverage,” shared the coffee brand.

However, it wasn’t long before the team landed on an idea: a peppermint-flavoured twist on the classic Caffè Mocha. Of course, it’s inspired by the flavours of traditional holiday candies.

The beverage’s recipe was further refined to create the Peppermint Mocha. It’s a combination of rich Starbucks espresso with bittersweet mocha sauce, peppermint syrup, and steamed milk, all topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of red sugar sprinkles. The drink was officially introduced for the 2002 holiday season and was received with roaring success.

Since its release, the recipe has only changed the slightest bit, now made with two per cent milk as the standard and now featuring dark chocolate curls instead of red sprinkles.

Now, almost 25 years later, the Peppermint Mocha remains one of Starbucks most beloved holiday beverages and is the longest-standing seasonal beverage at Starbucks (only second to the Pumpkin Spice Latte, which debuted in 2003).

What ways can I enjoy a Peppermint Mocha?

In addition to the Peppermint Mocha’s classic hot beverage, Starbucks has since released a Peppermint Chocolate Cream Cold Foam (also available as nondairy and Protein), Peppermint Mocha Frappuccino Blended Beverage, and Iced Peppermint Mocha.

Or, if you want to enjoy the seasonal flavour at home, Starbucks Peppermint Mocha-flavoured coffee is available for the first time in Nespresso Vertuo and K-Cup pods.

Major fans of the drink will also be able to check out the new merchandise line inspired by the beloved beverage, which includes:

• Glass Christmas Tree Cold Cup ($47.95 )
• Pink Owala Shimmer Water Bottle 24oz ($43.95)
• Ceramic Striped Espresso Cup ($18.95)
• Glass Gem Cold Cup 16oz  ($36.95)

These seasonal drinks and cute merchandise will only be available for the season, so make sure to get a sip before winter’s over; you won’t regret it.

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