Starbucks Releases 'Blonde Espresso' For Light Roast Lovers

There are two types of coffee drinkers in the world: those who take it black, and those who overload on milk and sugar so it tastes more like dessert. Luckily for the latter, Starbucks has just announced a brand new permanent menu item — a one-of-a-kind light roast with natural sweetness, which means less added sugar! And it's quite the opposite of a Unicorn Frappuccino.

For the first time in over 40 years, the brand is introducing a new espresso — and it's blonde. The "Starbucks Blonde Espresso," boasts a lighter, smoother coffee flavor, but has just as much caffeine as the bold, dark-roasted espresso that's been in every latte, macchiato, and Flat White for over 40 years.

All drinks ordered "blonde" will have bright, sweet citrus notes with hints of lemon, orange, and caramel.

"Blonde is a great option for customers who are new to coffee, or who are looking for a smoother coffee flavor that needs less cream and sugar added — Starbucks makes its Blonde espresso flavored drinks (like Vanilla Latte or Caramel Macchiato) with less syrup to balance out the espresso," Starbucks said in a press release. "Because of its brightness, Blonde Espresso is an ideal base for any Iced Espresso beverage, like an Iced Americano."

Coffee lovers interested in trying the new roast can do so starting January 9.

For more on the Seattle-based brand, here are 20 things you didn't know about Starbucks.