Starbucks will be launching an all new Via into their Via Ready Brew lineup.  The new Via is a Peppermint Mocha, and will be available in stores on November 13th.  Like the recently released Pumpkin Spice Via, it will be a limited, seasonal offering.  Every year, Starbucks emphasizes peppermint as a seasonal syrup, though it is possible to order the peppermint syrup year-round (though the special toppings, such the chocolate curls, are only available during the holiday promotional period.).  It makes total sense that a peppermint mocha would be a natural expansion for the Via lineup!  One interesting thing about this new Peppermint Mocha Via is that it’s meant to be enjoyed with hot milk over hot water.

It’s amazing how the Via lineup has developed over the years.  On March 3, 2009, Starbucks launched (in limited cities) the very first two Via Ready Brew offerings: Italian Roast and Colombia Via.  I can definitely say that when I read the initial official blog at Starbucks.com about the March Via launch, I didn’t imagine any of the flavored offerings which have been so popular.

I give it two thumbs up.  I discovered that Target put this on sale early, so much to my surprise, I got to try this early!  When I got home with my Via, I microwaved milk (about 8 to 9 ounces), and tested it out.  I paid $7.99 for a box with six Via sachets inside, and I also discovered that inside  was a coupon for $1.00 off of Via.

It has a distinctive mocha flavor with a subtle peppermint flavor from start to finish.  It’s very nicely done.  Don’t expect an overly sugary candy cane flavor.

By the way, that’s not my perfectly polished nail in the lead photo.  Thank you to the person who sent me that photo.  One very interesting thing – I don’t know if Target has slightly different packaging than what will be in the retail stores.  The photo with the finger with red nail polish came from someone who went to the Starbucks Leadership Conference in Houston.  It’s really clear that one box says that there is 5 Via sachets, and the other box says 6.  I do think it’s very possible that if you’re buying this in the Starbucks stores, it will be in a box of 5 sachets, and that the CPG line of distribution (Target, grocery channels) will have a slightly bigger box with 6 sachets.

For those who are curious, the back of the box says that each Via sachet is 80 calories.

What do you think? Have you tried this new Via yet?  I think this is another one that will be good to stock up on.