Something You’ve Never Tried. But You’ll Love.
There’s a new kind of indulgence brewing this season—one that’s as eye-catching as it is delicious. Starbucks South Africa is turning heads with the introduction of its Ube Vanilla range, a bold and colourful addition to its Summer 2 beverage lineup.
Imagine holding a soft purple latte in your hand. It’s unexpected, intriguing, and instantly captivating. But beyond its striking appearance lies a flavour profile that’s smooth, nutty, and gently sweet, with a comforting warmth reminiscent of vanilla. This is Ube Vanilla—something you may have never tried before, but will likely love from the very first sip.
A Taste Rooted in Tradition
Ube (pronounced oo-beh) is a purple yam long celebrated in Filipino cuisine. Traditionally used in desserts and festive treats, ube brings a naturally rich sweetness with subtle vanilla-like undertones. Its unique flavour makes it a perfect companion for coffee and matcha, creating a fusion that feels both familiar and refreshingly new.
Six Ways to Experience Ube Vanilla
The new range offers a variety of ways to explore this distinctive flavour, catering to every mood and moment:
- Ube Vanilla Velvet Latte
- Iced Ube Vanilla Velvet Latte
- Iced Ube Vanilla Matcha Latte
- Ube Vanilla Velvet Matcha Latte
- Ube Vanilla Frappuccino®
- Ube Vanilla Cream Frappuccino®
Each drink delivers its own experience—whether you’re craving the comforting warmth of a classic latte or the icy refreshment of a blended frappuccino.
“Each one has its own character. The warmth of a well-made latte, the vanilla notes, the espresso blends. These are flavours that feel like home. Ube is easy to love and even easier to order again.”
As Ishan Natalie, Central Operations, Category and Coffee Excellence Lead at Starbucks South Africa, explains:
A Seasonal Sip Worth Trying
As summer lingers, there’s no better time to try something different. The Ube Vanilla range is more than just a trend—it’s a sensory experience that combines culture, colour, and comfort in every cup.
Now available at Starbucks stores nationwide, these limited-time beverages invite you to step out of your comfort zone and discover a new favourite. You can also enjoy them from the comfort of your home by ordering through popular delivery platforms.
So next time you’re deciding on your usual order, consider going purple. It might just become your new go-to.
