Pay no attention to the calendar.
Autumn starts when Starbucks says it starts.
And that’s today, the launch of the coffee juggernaut’s Pumpkin Spice Latte season.
Twenty-one years ago, back in aught-3, on a day that should go down in brand marketing history, Starbucks introduced the Pumpkin Spice Latte and set off a fall beverage revolution. Now, virtually every shop that sells coffee — from 7-Eleven to indie roasters — offers some version of the PSL or other fall-flavored drinks.
Besides the PSL, the Starbucks menu features the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, the Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte and autumn’s companion flavors, a new New Iced Apple Crisp Nondairy Cream Chai, Apple Crisp Oatmilk Shaken Espresso and the Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato.
In the bakery case, look for the return of last year’s Baked Apple Croissant and a longtime customer favorite, the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffin. The Pumpkin & Pepita Loaf is available year-round.
What if you’re one of those who doesn’t like to drink pumpkin coffees until autumn actually arrives?
Mark Saturday, Sept. 22, on your calendar.