In Defense of the Pumpkin Spice Latte
BY HARIKA GOTETI '24
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An old wives tale states that if you say “Pumpkin Spice Latte" into a mirror three times, a girl in yoga pants will pop up and tell you all the best things about fall. Unfortunately, the Pumpkin Spice Latte has been the butt of similar endless jokes due to the opinion that it is overrated. People throw around words like “basic” or “gross” when it comes to this classic drink, but don't listen to the haters. As a champion of the PSL, I say that these drinks are the farthest thing from overrated, in fact, they might even be more amazing then you’ve heard.
People clearly love this drink, as it is Starbucks’ most popular seasonal drink. After the success of the winter drinks such as the Peppermint Mocha and the Eggnog Latte, the PSL was created in 2003. Becoming available in the fall, a PSL includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Ever since their creation, these drinks have been a subject of everyone’s fall fascination. Their sweet and pleasant ingredients make it enjoyable for many--including myself– and leads to a boost in drink sales during late August until early November. According to Forbes Magazine, the beverage helped spike the popularity of other pumpkin spice products such as candles, air fresheners, doughnuts, cereals, cough drops, and pasta sauce. Dunkin', Tim Hortons, and even McDonald's have their own versions of the drink as well. There’s so many options! If the Pumpkin Spice Latte is as overrated as everyone says, these other variations wouldn’t be as readily available; if you dislike the Starbucks drink, then the other aforementioned products could be another thing for you to try! There are also many different variations of the classic PSL drink such as Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew or an Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte, which is my personal favorite due to its blend of black tea infused with cinnamon and other warming spices. Make sure to make your latte perfect for you. Whether that’s adding a little extra sugar, or maybe sprinkling on some additional cinnamon, you need to make sure that your latte’s perfect. Humans enjoy the warm feelings of nostalgia that fall brings, and the warm and fuzzy feelings allow us to be comfortable in our own nostalgia. I love the seasonal tradition of getting a Pumpkin Spice Latte, and I recommend it to get those warm and fuzzy feelings that fall brings. If you miss the chance, then you can most definitely try to get them next season. I appreciate the aforementioned coziness of this drink despite what others might say about girls in yoga pants who are obsessed with PSL. This drink allows a community of people, regardless of opinion, to come together and share their views on something as simple as a Starbucks drink, start new conversations, and potentially create new friendships. The drink truly embodies the fall spirit because it's a great way to help people get together! It truly amazes me as to how this drink can be a subject for light and humor despite what else may be going on in our lives. As you enjoy the fall season, make sure to grab a pumpkin spice latte, and enjoy the beauty of the season! |
