What’s the difference between a ‘brewed’ drink and ‘handcrafted’ drink at Starbucks?

By Matt Collins Article may include affiliate links

Starbucks classifies its beverage offerings into two broad categories — “brewed” and “handcrafted.”

• Brewed beverages are typically defined as either tea or coffee drinks without any other ingredients added other than any sweeteners or creamers.
• Handcrafted beverages, meanwhile, are generally defined as more complex drinks such lattes, limited time specials or that have flavoring, lemonade or other juice, toppings or other items added.
• Other handcrafted beverages include blended drinks such as Frappuccinos.
• Handcrafted drinks typically have additional ingredients or preparation steps that are done behind the counter.

• Creamer alternatives such as coconut or soy milk are not considered “free” and adding these to a brewed beverage is done at an extra charge. However, this can be done to a brewed beverage without it becoming “handcrafted.”
• These categories are especially important with the updated Starbucks Rewards program that specifies different point values for these types of drinks.
• However, note that drive thru orders are not eligible for free refills.