This is my first review of a product from a national coffee chain, and it's quite appropriate that its Costa as it just so happens to be my favourite! (although I will admit to occasionally flirting with Caffe Nero!)
Whilst stopping by there on a freezing cold day recently I fancied something a bit different from hot chocolate and plumped for this Hot Spiced Apple Drink instead. It's part of Costa's Autumn drinks range which also includes their Chocolate Orange Mocha Latte (see review HERE by Foodstuff Finds). It's advertised as "bewitchingly warm, fearfully fruity" to tie-in with Halloween, but I do hope it will stick around into the Winter months!
I was very impressed with the presentation - the drink comes in a glass complete with a cinnamon stick and some star anise floating in it. I was told by the lady serving me it would taste very strong, and boy was she right. Taking my first sip I was met with an intensely sweet and tart apple flavour which put a huge smile on my face! It tasted delicious; very warming and fruity, and gave me just the energy boost I needed on a freezing cold day. The spice flavours gave it a warming kick and the star anise pods and cinnamon were a nice touch that really added to the autumnal feel. I chewed on the cinnamon stick after finishing my drink...which probably isn't advised, but hey it was fun!
Overall I can't recommend this drink enough; it's perfect for an energy boost on a cold day and I'll definitely be buying it in future! I just hope it won't be discontinued now that Halloween is over...
*Edit: Costa have informed me this will be on the menu until January - yay!
Rating: 8.5 out of 10.