If you’ve ever stood in line at a Starbucks, watching the barista expertly steam milk and carefully pour espresso into a cup, you might have wondered: what kind of coffee actually goes into that latte? Is it a secret blend? A proprietary roast? Or something you could recreate at home?
In this article, we’ll explore the type of coffee used in a Starbucks latte, breaking down flavor profiles, roasting techniques, and the company’s evolving approach to sourcing and sustainability. Whether you’re a casual latte lover or a coffee connoisseur, by the end of this guide, you’ll understand why a Starbucks latte tastes the way it does—and how it fits into the broader coffee industry.
Understanding the Latte: A Coffee Classic
Before diving into the beans, let’s define what a latte actually is. The term “latte” comes from the Italian caffè latte, meaning “milk coffee.” It’s typically made with:
- Espresso: A concentrated shot of coffee brewed by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee at high pressure.
- Steamed milk: Milk that has been heated and textured to create a velvety mouthfeel.
- Milk foam: A small layer of frothy milk on top for added texture.
At Starbucks, a classic latte is commonly served in sizes ranging from 8 oz (tall) to 24 oz (venti) and is a staple of their menu. The balance between espresso and milk makes it a smoother, creamier alternative to straight espresso or Americano.
But the heart of any latte—especially when it comes to flavor and base notes—is the espresso, and therefore, the coffee beans used to make that espresso.
Starbucks Espresso Roast: The Foundation of Their Lattes
Now to the core question: what type of coffee is used in a Starbucks latte?
The standard espresso blend used in most of the United States and globally (with regional variations which we’ll discuss later) is the Starbucks Espresso Roast. This is a dark roast, known for its bold and rich flavor profile. Dark roasts are subject to longer roasting times, which results in oils coming to the surface of the bean and giving that signature dark color and robust taste.
Key Characteristics of Starbucks Espresso Roast
Let’s break down what makes this blend so integral to the latte experience at Starbucks:
- Origin: The blend consists of 100% Arabica beans sourced from more than one region, typically Latin American countries.
- Roast Level: Dark roast, often described as “full-city” or “Vienna roast” equivalents in the coffee roasting community.
- Flavor Notes: Starbucks describes this roast as having a bold flavor with caramelized sugar and hints of cocoa, which balance well with steamed milk.
- Body: Full-bodied, offering a thick and smooth texture ideal for mixed drinks like lattes.
Is Starbucks Espresso a Single-Origin or Blend?
One of the keys to Starbucks’ classic latte taste is consistency. To maintain that balance across its global market, Starbucks espressos are typically blends—meaning they combine beans from multiple origins.
This process allows Starbucks to maintain quality and flavor year-round, even as harvest seasons and bean availability change. Their Espresso Roast is a hallmark blend, developed to provide a consistent taste profile that complements rather than overpowers the milk used in lattes.
While single-origin beans are popular in specialty coffee shops for their unique terroir and distinctive flavor notes, Starbucks opts for a classic, dark-roasted blend to ensure a flavor that’s accessible and widely appealing.
What’s the Difference Between Starbucks Espresso Roast and Regular Coffee at Starbucks?
A common point of confusion is distinguishing between the Espresso Roast meant for shots and the various coffee blends used in regular brewed coffee.
| Characteristic | Starbucks Espresso Roast | Regular Starbucks Brewed Coffee (e.g., Pike Place Roast) |
|---|---|---|
| Roast Level | Dark | Medium (varies by blend) |
| Coffee Type | Arabica blend | Arabica, single-origin or blend |
| Recommended Use | Espresso, lattes, cappuccinos | Drip or pour-over brewing |
| Flavor Profile | Bold, rich, with cocoa notes | Balanced, mild, with nutty or fruity highlights |
| Available Retail | Yes (whole bean and ground) | Yes (whole bean and ground) |
The Espresso Roast is specifically formulated to deliver strong flavors when brewed into a small volume of liquid (an espresso shot), whereas coffee like Pike Place Roast is a medium roast designed to taste great when brewed for longer with more water.
Geographic Variations in Starbucks Espresso
Interestingly, what’s in the espresso shot can vary depending on where you are in the world. Starbucks strategically tailors its coffee offerings to local tastes and sourcing contracts. For example:
North America
The standard goes back to the previously described Espresso Roast—a Latin American dark blend that is rich and bold.
Japan
In Japan, Starbucks uses a different espresso blend known as Sumatra. Not only do they roast it a bit longer than other regions, but they also use 100% Sumatran beans. The flavors tend to lean more toward earthy and herbal, with a more complex acidity that appeals to local tastes where subtlety and balance are preferred.
Hong Kong and China
Espresso served in Starbucks’ Chinese locations tends to use a different blend or lighter roast, again to suit local palates that often favor sweeter, smoother coffee flavors, especially when milk is involved.
Sourcing and Sustainability: How Starbucks Gets Its Coffee
As a global brand, Starbucks has been under public pressure to increase transparency and sustainability in its coffee sourcing. The company’s coffee procurement strategy is guided by their Coffee and Farmer Equity (C.A.F.E.) Practices, a set of ethical guidelines intended to ensure:
- High-quality coffee
- Environmental stewardship
- Social responsibility
- Economic accountability
These guidelines help Starbucks source most of its coffee from ethical suppliers. Additionally, the majority of Starbucks’ coffee (over 99%) is ethically sourced as of recent reports, highlighting the company’s commitment to sustainable agriculture.
Where Does Starbucks Source From?
The beans primarily come from three main coffee-growing regions:
- Latin America: Countries like Colombia, Guatemala, Bolivia, and Costa Rica provide much of Starbucks’ Arabica beans.
- Africa: Countries like Ethiopia, Kenya, and Rwanda yield floral, citrus-forward coffees that are sometimes used in seasonal or limited-time espresso variations.
- Asia-Pacific: Indonesia’s Sumatra delivers earthy, deep profiles, while India contributes washed and naturally processed beans with nutty finishes.
However, when it comes to lattes, especially at scale, blends leaning more toward Latin American beans are most common—ensuring that robust, syrupy body with a touch of cocoa and toasted sweetness.
Can You Buy the Starbucks Latte Espresso At Home?
Yes—you absolutely can. Starbucks sells its Espresso Roast coffee in whole bean and ground versions in stores and online through their website or third-party retailers. The beans come in standard packaging sizes and are labeled specifically as “Starbucks Espresso Roast.” They are dark brown with an oily sheen, just like most dark roast coffees.
Home Brewing Tips
If you want a true Starbucks-style latte at home:
- Use Starbucks Espresso Roast ground for espresso machines.
- Pull a double shot (about 2 ounces) of espresso.
- Froth and steam 6–8 ounces of whole milk until smooth (or use a milk alternative like oat or almond).
- Pour the espresso into your cup and top with milk.
For those without an espresso machine, investing in a Nespresso system, manual pressurized espresso maker, or even a Moka pot can bring you closer to that signature latte texture and strength using Starbucks Espresso Roast.
What About Non-Dairy and Flavored Lattes?
Starbucks has expanded beyond the classic milk-and-espresso format. Their menu now includes:
- Lattes made with oat, almond, soy, or coconut milk
- Flavored lattes like vanilla, caramel, and cinnamon dolce
- Seasonal specials like pumpkin spice latte or peppermint mocha
While the base coffee remains the Espresso Roast (unless otherwise specified, like with a specific single-origin or seasonal roast), these drinks contain syrup-based flavorings and alternative milks that slightly alter the taste and body of the final beverage.
Flavor Shot vs. Flavored Syrup
One misconception is that Starbucks flavors are highly artificial. In reality, most are made with simple syrup bases with FDA-approved natural and artificial flavoring agents. These additions are meant to complement—not overpower—the espresso flavor.
It’s worth noting that many of these flavored beverages add more sugar and calories, so they should be enjoyed mindfully, especially as you increase consumption frequency.
Is There a Stronger Coffee Used in Starbucks Lattes?
If you’re after a stronger caffeine kick, Starbucks offers the “quad” espresso shot** (four shots instead of the standard two), but this is at the discretion of the barista (and your sensitivity to caffeine!).
Additionally, some seasonal or higher-end drinks like the Caffè Mocha or Flat White may contain stronger or different espresso blends in some regions—though in most cases, they still start with the standard Espresso Roast.
What About Competitors and Specialty Coffee Lattes?
Starbucks stands out not only for its accessibility but also how it standardizes its coffee blends globally. Meanwhile, specialty coffee shops often use local roasters, light roasts, or more complex blends emphasizing traceability and single-origin storytelling.
However, in these environments, espresso styles vary widely—some shops may use blends similar in roast to Starbucks, while others opt for lighter South American beans or even East African espresso shots that are more floral and acidic.
The result? A latte from a small café might taste more nuanced or brighter than one from Starbucks—but if you’re after that classic thick and sweet espresso flavor with tons of foam, Starbucks remains a market leader.
Final Thoughts: What Makes the Starbucks Latte Unique?
The type of coffee used in a Starbucks latte—its bold, dark roast espresso blend—is the backbone of the drink’s iconic flavor. It’s smooth enough for daily drinking, strong enough for coffee lovers, and consistent everywhere you go. Whether you’re on the West Coast, in Tokyo, or in Dubai, a grande latte maintains a remarkably similar profile—something that’s not easy to achieve at global scale.
In summary:
- Starbucks lattes are made with their **Espresso Roast**, a dark roast Arabica blend.
- The blend is typically made from **Latin American beans**, crafted for a bold and smooth flavor profile.
- Geographic variations exist, such as the exclusive Sumatra blend used in Japan.
- This roast is available for purchase for those who want to recreate the latte experience at home.
- Starbucks ensures ethical sourcing through the C.A.F.E. Practices, supporting farmers globally.
Whether you sip a latte for the caffeine, the texture, or just the warmth it brings on a rainy day, knowing the kind of coffee behind that frothy cup adds another layer of appreciation to your Starbucks moment.
What type of coffee does Starbucks use in their lattes?
Starbucks primarily uses their signature espresso roast in lattes, which is a medium to dark roast blend known for its rich, caramelly flavor profile. This blend is carefully crafted using beans sourced from Latin America and is specifically designed to hold up to the addition of milk and other ingredients commonly found in specialty drinks like the latte. The espresso roast provides a balanced foundation that complements the creamy texture and subtle sweetness that milk adds to the beverage.
In addition to the standard espresso roast, Starbucks offers alternative options for customers who prefer different flavor profiles. These include their Blonde Espresso, which is a lighter roast with a smoother, more mellow taste, as well as seasonal or regional espresso blends that highlight beans from different growing regions such as Africa or Asia-Pacific. These alternatives provide a unique twist to the traditional latte and cater to a wide variety of coffee preferences.
Is the coffee used in a Starbucks latte considered high quality?
Yes, the coffee used in a Starbucks latte is considered high quality, as the company sources 99% of its coffee through ethical sourcing practices. Starbucks works directly with coffee growers and supports sustainable farming methods through its Coffee and Farmer Equity (C.A.F.E.) Practices program. This ensures that the beans meet stringent quality standards while also promoting environmentally friendly and socially responsible practices in coffee-growing communities.
Moreover, Starbucks roasts its coffee to precise standards to ensure consistency and flavor in every cup. The espresso used in lattes is specially blended and roasted to deliver a robust, full-bodied taste that pairs well with steamed milk. The quality of the coffee, along with skilled preparation techniques used by baristas, contributes significantly to the overall experience and satisfaction of drinking a Starbucks latte.
Can customers choose different types of coffee in their latte at Starbucks?
Yes, customers have the option to customize their latte with different types of coffee at Starbucks. While the standard version uses the brand’s Espresso Roast, customers can request alternatives such as the Blonde Espresso, which offers a lighter, smoother flavor profile. In addition, Starbucks often rotates single-origin or limited-time espresso blends that allow for a more distinctive and nuanced latte experience based on seasonal availability or regional sourcing.
For customers preferring brewed coffee in their latte, this can also be accommodated, although it’s less common. In such cases, a “drip” coffee like Pike Place Roast can be used instead of espresso, creating a different kind of milk-based coffee drink. However, the traditional latte is meant to be made with espresso, and baristas typically recommend sticking with espresso or its variants for the best taste and texture.
What is the difference between Espresso Roast and Pike Place Roast in lattes?
Starbucks Espresso Roast and Pike Place Roast are both popular coffee blends, but they serve different purposes and offer distinct flavor profiles. Espresso Roast is specifically designed for use in espresso-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. It has a bold, rich flavor with hints of caramel and a full body that stands up well to steamed milk. This roast is blended and ground to optimize extraction during the espresso brewing process.
On the other hand, Pike Place Roast is Starbucks’ signature medium roast, often used in drip brewing methods and served as a regular brewed coffee. While it is balanced and smooth with a slight hint of cocoa, it lacks the concentrated intensity and crema that espresso brings to a latte. When used in a latte, Pike Place Roast may result in a less traditional flavor and mouthfeel compared to espresso. However, it can be a suitable option for those who prefer a lighter, smoother coffee experience in their milk-based drinks.
Are there decaf options for Starbucks lattes?
Yes, Starbucks offers decaf versions of their lattes for customers who want to enjoy the classic latte experience without the caffeine. The decaf coffee used is typically the decaf version of the standard Espresso Roast or Pike Place Roast, depending on the method of preparation. These decaf blends are made by removing caffeine from the beans using a water process that preserves the original flavor characteristics of the coffee.
Customers who request a decaf latte can expect a similar taste and texture to the regular version, minus the stimulating effects of caffeine. Decaf espresso allows for the same rich and creamy structure that defines a latte, making it an ideal choice for those sensitive to caffeine or enjoying a coffee later in the day. Starbucks baristas are trained to use decaf coffee upon request, and customizations such as additional flavors or milk types can also be applied to decaf lattes.
Does Starbucks use different espresso blends internationally?
Starbucks does occasionally offer different espresso blends in various international markets to cater to local tastes and preferences. While the standard Espresso Roast used in the U.S. is composed of Latin American beans, other regions might feature unique blends that highlight locally popular flavor notes or use beans sourced from different growing regions, such as Africa or Asia-Pacific. These variations aim to enhance the coffee experience for customers worldwide while maintaining brand consistency.
For example, some European stores may offer a more traditional Italian-style espresso with a darker roast and bolder profile, while in Asia-Pacific outlets, Starbucks may experiment with lighter blends that emphasize floral or fruity notes. Even though the core brand image of Starbucks is consistent globally, the company adapts its coffee offerings to align with regional preferences, which includes modifying espresso blends used in lattes and other espresso-based beverages.
How does the type of milk used affect the taste of a Starbucks latte?
The type of milk selected can significantly influence the flavor and texture of a Starbucks latte. Whole milk is traditionally used because its higher fat content creates a creamy, smooth mouthfeel that complements the bold flavor of espresso. It also allows for the best milk frothing results, enhancing the sensory experience of the drink. However, many customers opt for 2%, non-fat, or plant-based alternatives like oat milk, almond milk, or soy milk, which alter the taste and consistency in different ways.
Plant-based milks, for instance, can bring their own flavors and textures into the latte. Oat milk, which is naturally sweeter and creamier, pairs well with espresso and froths effectively, making it a popular alternative. Almond milk tends to be lighter and slightly nutty, while soy milk offers a balance of richness and smoothness. Starbucks baristas are trained to work with various milk types and adjust steaming techniques accordingly, ensuring that each latte maintains the flavor profile and visual presentation expected by customers.