Top 10 Most Expensive Starbucks Coffees In The World
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Most Expensive Starbucks Coffees: Founded in Seattle, Washington in 1971, Starbucks is a globally recognized chain of coffee shops with an impressive 30,000 outlets worldwide. The brand is celebrated not only for its high-quality coffee but also for its inviting atmosphere that encourages customers to relax and engage with one another.
In addition to coffee, Starbucks offers an extensive assortment of teas, pastries, sandwiches, and other food items. With a strong online and mobile presence, customers can order and pay for their purchases through digital means. Starbucks is committed to ethical and sustainable sourcing of its coffee beans and has taken significant steps to reduce its environmental impact.
History of Starbucks
In 1971, Seattle, Washington became the birthplace of Starbucks, founded by Jerry Baldwin, Zev Siegl, and Gordon Bowker. Their inspiration came from Alfred Peet, a coffee roasting specialist, who motivated them to create a business that would provide the neighborhood with premium coffee.
Starbucks initially centered on retailing coffee beans and supplies, rather than serving brewed coffee to its customers. It promptly gained recognition for its high-grade beans and expert roasting techniques. In 1982, Howard Schultz entered the company as the Director of Marketing and Retail Operations.
Inspired by his Italian café experiences, Schultz aspired to establish a coffee shop where patrons could socialize and relax while enjoying their coffee. As the owners were unreceptive to his vision, Schultz left to create his own coffee enterprise, Il Giornale.
Schultz purchased Starbucks from its original owners in 1987 in order to merge it with his own business, with his vision for providing exceptional coffeehouse experiences fuelling rapid expansion across America.
Starbucks was an instantaneous cultural icon during the 90s, its cafes serving as popular hangouts for people of all ages. Starbucks began expanding internationally by opening locations in Canada, Japan, and the UK.
Starbucks has faced numerous obstacles over the past several years, including negative comments regarding employee treatment and environmental impact. However, efforts were taken by Starbucks to address these concerns by increasing employee wages and implementing policies to decrease its ecological footprint.
Nowadays, Starbucks leads the coffee market worldwide with over 30,000 outlets in over 80 countries around the globe; its commitment to quality, sustainability, and community participation ensures its ongoing popularity with global coffee drinkers.
Cultural significance
Ever since its inception in 1971; Starbucks has made a significant impact on culture. Being immensely popular and profitable, it has come to epitomize both globalization and American culture.
The impact of Starbucks on culture has been significant, particularly in the realm of coffee. Before the advent of Starbucks; coffee was mainly consumed as a utilitarian drink for a quick morning pick-me-up or during work breaks. However, Starbucks altered this perception by introducing an inviting atmosphere and a wide range of coffee beverages, pastries, and other food options. This revolutionary approach transformed coffee consumption into an experience, turning Starbucks into a social hub where people could enjoy coffee and conversation simultaneously.
Starbucks has contributed greatly to the concept of the “third place”; or the need for individuals to have somewhere beyond home and work where they can relax, chat, work, or simply unwind. Their locations are popular gathering spaces where people come together for conversations; work sessions or simply to relax.
As Starbucks operates across multiple countries and continents, its brand has come to symbolize globalization. Their iconic green and white color scheme and logo are instantly recognizable and have become part of popular culture; additionally, Starbucks is often associated with American ideals like individualism and consumerism as well as culture itself.
Starbucks has left an indelible cultural impact, while simultaneously striving towards environmental and social responsibility. The company has implemented measures to reduce its ecological footprint, such as investing in renewable energy and minimizing water usage. Additionally, Starbucks has contributed to various social initiatives like fair trade and ethical sourcing of coffee beans, and improving employee compensation and benefits.
Starbucks has undoubtedly exerted a profound cultural impact, revolutionizing coffee consumption and reshaping perceptions around the beverage. Furthermore, it has become emblematic of globalization and American culture.
Popularity of Starbucks
Starbucks is an internationally recognized and esteemed coffee enterprise with a loyal customer base. Its triumph can be attributed to a variety of factors. Foremost, Starbucks is famed for its coffee, sourced from some of the world's most prominent coffee-producing regions. The company upholds a rigorous standard for the quality and consistency of its beans, and its adept roasting techniques produce an exclusive aroma and taste that patrons adore.
Furthermore, Starbucks has created a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere within its establishments. The company's coffee shops are designed to be a “third place” where individuals can gather, socialize, and enjoy the ambiance. Starbucks' focus on creating a unique and inviting experience has contributed to its success.
Starbucks owes its success to various factors, including its superior coffee, customer-friendly retail environment, and commitment to social responsibility and sustainability. In addition, the company has embraced digital innovation, enabling customers to place orders and make payments online or through the Starbucks mobile app with ease.
Moreover, Starbucks has taken multiple steps to reduce its impact on the environment, such as investing in renewable energy sources and minimizing waste. Ethically and socially conscious customers have embraced Starbucks' efforts towards sustainable and ethical procurement of coffee beans. All these elements have contributed to building the brand's strong identity and loyal customer base.
Types of Starbucks Coffee
- Americano
- Cold brew
- Iced coffee
- Latte
- Frappuccino
- Espresso
- Drip coffee
- Mocha
Why Do Some People Love and Criticize Starbucks?
Why They Love:
- Starbucks is widely known for its premium coffee beans and skilled roasting procedures, which create a truly unforgettable flavor experience – something people love about the company! This is perhaps why so many adore them.
- Starbucks offers a selection of beverages designed to appeal to various tastes and preferences, such as traditional coffee beverages, specialty beverages, and seasonal items. Everyone can find something that suits them!
- Starbucks beverages are consistent across its locations due to a standardized menu and barista training program, offering customers a reliable experience when they order their favorite drink. Many customers appreciate this predictability when ordering from one of these coffee chains.
- Starbucks stores are designed to offer customers a comfortable setting with relaxing background music and plush seating. This creates an inviting and friendly environment that many patrons appreciate for its calming effect.
- Starbucks' global presence offers coffee addicts the convenience of finding a nearby location to satiate their cravings.
Why They Criticize:
- As previously mentioned, certain customers may perceive Starbucks' coffee prices to be higher compared to those of other coffee shops.
- Starbucks has been criticized by certain individuals who view it as a negative symbol of corporate culture and globalization. For some customers, the brand's perceived inauthenticity may be unappealing.
- Starbucks has recently faced criticism for its business practices centered around ethics and the environment. Concerns have been raised regarding their adherence to fair trade policies, proper trash disposal, and labor standards.
- For some customers, the hustle and bustle of Starbucks locations can create an unwelcome and unpleasant atmosphere.
- While a significant number of people enjoy Starbucks coffee, some may find the taste too harsh or bitter for their liking.
Why Starbucks Coffees Are Expensive?
- Starbucks prides itself on sourcing premium coffee beans from the finest plantations around the world. This means that their beverages are priced higher than those of other coffee shops due to the higher cost of these top-quality beans.
- Starbucks employs proficient roasters who employ specialized techniques and tools to roast the beans to perfection. This process involves a high level of labor and equipment expenses, which ultimately leads to an increase in the cost of their beverages.
- Starbucks' menu boasts a diverse range of specialty beverages that require additional ingredients such as syrups, flavorings, and non-dairy milk substitutes. The inclusion of these add-ons results in an increased price point for the beverages.
- Starbucks is a renowned and highly reputable company with an enthusiastic following of patrons. Due to the value of their brand and clientele, they can charge higher prices for their goods.
- Customers are drawn into Starbucks stores due to the unique and inviting ambiance. This requires an extra expenditure on store layout and decor costs, thus driving up beverage costs.
- Starbucks is committed to conducting ethical and environmentally responsible business practices, including paying fair rates to coffee producers while supporting environmentally friendly agricultural methods. As a result, the price of coffee beans and other materials increases accordingly.
- Starbucks employees receive benefits such as healthcare, stock options, and tuition assistance – benefits that contribute to an increase in labor expenses that add costs to beverages sold at Starbucks.
Top 10 Most Expensive Starbucks Coffees In The World
- Super Venti Flat White – Worth $148.99
- Grande Americano – Worth $102.15
- Venti White Mocha Frappuccino 2 – Worth $102.04
- Venti White Mocha Frappuccino – Worth $101.50
- 120-Shot Americano – Worth $92.55
- 100 Shot Caramel Frappuccino – Worth $86.55
- 99-Shot Grande Latte – Worth $83.75
- 77 Shot Venti Mocha Cookie Frappuccino – Worth $71.35
- Venti Caramel Crunch Frappuccino – Worth $57.75
- Venti Latte +70 Shots – Worth $55.75
#1. Super Venti Flat White – (Worth $148.99)
Last but certainly not least on this list is William Lewis' Super Venti Flat White coffee. With an astounding price of $148.99, William ordered an extravagant and exquisite cup.
William entered his local Starbucks confidently, carrying an impressive coffee mug in both hands. Without hesitation, he placed an order for a Super Venti Flat White with 170 shots of espresso and the addition of coconut milk for taste.
This innovative coffee, with its touch of coconut milk and 170 espresso shots (equivalent to around 11kg of caffeine) may be one of the costlier Starbucks beverages available.
#2. Grande Americano – (Worth $102.15)
Elton Castee; a well-known YouTuber with 3.6 million followers; recently attempted to set a new record for the most expensive Starbucks drink ever made.
In a video posted to his channel; Castee ordered a $102.15 coffee, which quickly garnered attention and went viral. While many of his fans may be surprised to learn this; Castee actually holds the title for the second most expensive Starbucks drink ever ordered.
In 2017; he set a world record with his $102.15 large Americano. During the preparation of his drink, Castee used the Death By Caffeine Calculator to determine the number of espresso shots that would be fatal for him. After receiving his drink, he was seen carrying a small, nearly translucent white trash can to his nearby business.
In an attempt to ease the overwhelming intensity of the experience, he requested 102 espresso shots with a caramel drizzle. Though he offered to share with his companions, the beverage remained unfinished. This unusual encounter is sure to become a part of Starbucks' lore for the ages.
#3. Venti White Mocha Frappuccino 2 – (Worth $102.04)
Thomas embarked on a mission to create the world's most expensive Starbucks beverage; which he eventually accomplished. Only one daring retailer agreed to manufacture and package the drink in a metal can.
Thomas combined an immoderate amount of ingredients to make the outlandish cocktail; including 102 shots of espresso, 54 servings of sweet drink; 70 pumps of white mocha syrup, four pumps of caramel flavoring, 5 mashed bananas for thickness and sweetness; 5.5 tablespoons of protein powder for maximum nutrition, and additional Frappuccino chips and liquid caramel to balance the energizing espresso and sweet Frappuccino.
The result was a caffeine fanatic's fantasy, with 7,800 mg of energy from the additional 102 shots and generous protein serving. Thomas' White Mocha Frappuccino was a marvel to behold.
Although his concoction contained fewer shots of caffeine than the previous champion; it was priced higher due to the inclusion of various ingredients such as bananas and protein. The innovative inventor; however; utilized his rewards card to obtain the drink without spending any money. He even managed to spend his savings of $102.04 on the drink alone.
#4. Venti White Mocha Frappuccino – (Worth $101.50)
Although the Starbucks White Mocha Frappuccino may appear to be a luxurious indulgence, it's probably not worth the exorbitant price tag of $101.50.
Justin, an avid Starbucks aficionado, recently set a record by ordering the most expensive Starbucks beverage ever. Despite the company's policy against such exorbitant orders, Justin was able to find a willing business to create his colossal drink.
He arrived at his local Starbucks with a massive plastic container and a crowd of curious onlookers gathered around. The resulting beverage was a White Mocha Frappuccino with an astonishing 8,525 mg of caffeine, which is truly remarkable.
However, for most customers, it's probably best to stick with the traditional White Mocha Frappuccino as it is, without breaking the bank. An extravagant order of 112 espresso shots, 55 Frappuccino roast pumps, 70 white mocha pumps, and 4 caramel syrup pumps was placed.
Adding five bananas and 20 grams of protein powder aimed to maximize its nutritional content. The order arrived in an unexpected blue construction pail, and it's safe to say the customer won't be revisiting Starbucks anytime soon.
#5. 120-Shot Americano – (Worth $92.55)
In today's social media-driven world, the younger and more affluent generations are always eager to join challenges that become viral sensations.
In 2015, Shaine Choen and Kiersten Vorv, two young women, attempted one such challenge by ordering one of the most luxurious and expensive beverages at Starbucks. Known as the Rewards Drink Quad Espresso, this coffee contained a whopping 120 espresso shots.
The duo ordered the drink for free using their Starbucks Reward birthday bonus, which would have cost them a whopping $92.55 otherwise.
However, Starbucks has reportedly cautioned its baristas against creating such massive beverages, as they do not promote such record-breaking endeavors. In any case, the two friends carried their large engraved Starbucks glasses and sipped on their invigorating drink with enthusiasm.
#6. 100 Shot Caramel Frappuccino – (Worth $86.55)
For some, a single shot of espresso just doesn't cut it – they need at least 100 to feel truly alive. Renee; a New York City resident; falls into this category.
In March 2015, she took her coffee addiction to the next level by purchasing a Caramel Frappuccino for an astounding $86.55 at her favorite Starbucks location. The drink arrived in a large; shake-style glass; generously topped with whipped cream and caramel sauce.
Renee was even able to score the beverage for free with her Starbucks rewards card. The Frappuccino was a decadent blend of coffee, whole milk, and 100 shots of espresso, with additional caramel syrup, whipped cream, and ice. To ensure safety and satiate his own taste buds, he included a few Frappuccino chips in the beverage as a finishing touch.
#7. 99-Shot Grande Latte – (Worth $83.75)
William Lewis must have had the courage to order a “101-Shot Grande Latte,” an extravagant specialty beverage that set him back an astounding $83.75!
William E. Lewis Jr., of Pembroke Pines in Florida, was determined to outwit Sameera Raziuddin's “most expensive drink at Starbucks” challenge and ordered an extravagant Starbucks latte with 101 espresso shots, complete with matcha powder, mocha powder, 17 pumps of vanilla syrup and 101 shots of espresso for his order – creating an exquisite flavor experience in one spectacular sip!
Lewis Jr. outwitted Raziuddin on price by ordering a coffee that would have cost $83.75 without his Starbucks Rewards! Lewis holds Starbucks' Limited Edition Metal Card made of stainless steel – this special card can only be obtained by 5,000 exceptional elite customers worldwide.
#8. 77 Shot Venti Mocha Cookie Frappuccino – (Worth $71.35)
Jarrod Johnson; a well-known Starbucks enthusiast; made headlines when he purchased the Venti Mocha Cookie Crumble Frappuccino; one of the most expensive beverages the coffee chain has to offer.
Johnson visited his local Starbucks in Barboursville, West Virginia on his birthday, July 2nd, and boldly decided to order the costly drink, which contained five frappuccinos, 77 shots of espresso, and a variety of syrup drizzles.
Though the drink would have cost him $71.35, Johnson was able to take advantage of a free offer from Starbucks' Rewards program. He even brought a cooler with him to savor the drink later at home. The online challenge that followed made Johnson a recognized victor within the Starbucks community.
#9. Venti Caramel Crunch Frappuccino – (Worth $57.75)
Sameera Raziuddin; a medical student and resident of Florida; has made headlines for her remarkable coffee order.
In order to stay alert during her grueling sessions, Sameera ordered a 192-ounce Venti Caramel Crunch Frappuccino from her local Starbucks, which contained an astonishing 60 shots of espresso; generous portions of caramel syrup, white mocha, Tazo chai, hazelnut, and vanilla beans.
This one-of-a-kind beverage was served in an extravagant 1.5-gallon container with a cork stopper and an additional drizzle of caramel. The cost for this extraordinary coffee was $57.75, and the order was placed and paid for at a Starbucks in Pembroke Pines, Florida.
Despite the fact that the beverage was quite expensive; coming in at around $57.75, Raziuddin was able to enjoy it free of cost due to her Starbucks Rewards membership.
#10. Venti Latte +70 Shots – (Worth $55.75)
To order the first drink on the menu, patrons had to bring their own bucket due to its size.
This beverage was priced at a staggering $55.75 and contained caramel syrup, two pumps of vanilla syrup, and a whopping 70 espresso shots. Each shot of espresso typically contains 64mg of caffeine, so this drink had a total of 4480mg of caffeine – definitely not a recommended way to start your day.
Interestingly, the customers who ordered this drink did not have to pay for it; instead, they redeemed their complimentary birthday drink rewards card.
It's unknown whether or not they managed to consume the entire beverage, but we can't imagine ingesting that much caffeine and remaining awake.
Bottom Line
Starbucks is an esteemed and well-recognized coffee chain with an enthusiastic following of customers. Due to their established brand and clientele, they can command higher prices for their goods.
Starbucks stores attract customers due to their unique and inviting ambiance, drawing them in through store layout and decor costs – an expenditure that drives up beverage costs.
Starbucks is committed to conducting ethical and environmentally responsible business practices, such as paying fair rates to coffee producers while supporting ecological agriculture methods. As such, prices of materials used by Starbucks for its products rise accordingly.
Starbucks employees enjoy benefits including healthcare, stock options, and tuition assistance – contributing to higher labor expenses which in turn affect the costs of beverages sold at Starbucks. Starbucks is more than just a coffee chain; it has become an iconic cultural symbol, revolutionizing how people socialize and work at coffee shops worldwide. Although criticized at times, Starbucks remains popular with coffee lovers around the globe.
FAQ.
Starbucks coffee stands out from other products due to the way they roast their beans; their proprietary method brings out more nuanced flavour notes while often featuring finer grinds than others, creating an enhanced experience and greater depth of taste.
Our aim at Starbucks Coffee is to nourish and uplift the human spirit through each cup that we sell in each location, one person at a time. Our customers, partners, and coffee as pillars share this goal by creating an environment in which all feel welcome and at home.
Before serving its product to customers, Starbucks inspects it to make sure that it satisfies standards. Baristas sample coffee to customers samples it to check uniformity while an area manager conducts periodic quality control inspections of coffee quality in his area.
According to one theory, for an individual to deliver services that satisfy customers and win them over to a business, they need to be highly respected, well-taught, financially compensated and driven.
Aditi is an Industry Analyst at Enterprise Apps Today and specializes in statistical analysis, survey research and content writing services. She currently writes articles related to the "most expensive" category.
