Starbucks reintroduces Pumpkin Spice Latte on Aug 26 with fall lineup

Starbucks will reintroduce its Pumpkin Spice Latte on August 26, kicking off a widely anticipated fall menu that also features returning favorites and new items, as chains race to capture demand for the season’s signature flavor. The fall lineup includes hot, iced or blended versions of the PSL, plus variations such as the Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai and a Pecan Crunch Oatmilk Latte. A newly added Pecan Oatmilk Cortado will be available in an eight-ounce short size, described as three ristretto shots of Blonde Espresso combined with steamed milk for a richer, more concentrated sip. The company notes the cortado brings a balanced, creamy texture to the pumpkin-inspired lineup, with the accompanying notes of nutty pecan and holiday spices.

The PSL’s return is more than a seasonal ritual; it represents a major business moment for a beverage industry that increasingly treats autumn as a multi-month campaign. The drink, first launched in 2003, has grown into Starbucks’ most popular seasonal beverage and a cornerstone of the company’s fall strategy. Industry observers point to the PSL’s cultural reach and its role in driving traffic and sales during a time when consumers begin seeking...