I Tried One Of Starbucks' New Iced Tea Infusions And The Flavor Is Insane

When it comes to iced teas, Starbucks continues to innovate, creating new concoctions I had no idea I needed in my life.

Their rainbow drinks, for example, are staples in my unicorn diet. And frankly, I don't know what life was like before I tasted Lady Gaga's favorite Matcha Lemonade.

Now, as of July 11, a new favorite has entered my iced drink rotation.

Teavana Shaken Iced Pineapple Black Tea Infusion

It's a mouthful that can be shortened to just Iced Pineapple Black Tea upon ordering at your local 'bucks. (At least that's what I called it when I ordered a grande on its release date.)

Prior to my first sip, I wondered how pineapple's tropical notes would pair against traditional black tea's bold flavor.

After my first sip, I wondered how I hadn't thought of the combo before.

It's delicious.

The tea "infusion" is bursting with refreshing hints of pineapple flavor that aren't overwhelming or too sweet in the slightest.

As my sips turned to gulps, my tastebuds couldn't help but compare the iced tea to a piña colada.

While it lacks coconut entirely (unlike Starbucks' new Iced Cascara Coconut Milk Latte), the light pineapple flavor, courtesy of a fruit and botanical blend, is powerful enough to create welcomed summer mocktail vibes.

In a Starbucks press release, product developer Megan Droz explained exactly why infusing fruity flavors with tea works so well. She said,

Freshly steeped botanicals have subtle flavors that don't overpower the pure and simple notes of tea, which then have a chance to shine through.

Genius!

Seriously though, I think it's safe to say the Pineapple Black Tea will bode extremely well as a mixer for your favorite rum.

While I've only tried one of the three Teavana infusions, I think the other two flavors — Strawberry Green Tea and Peach Citrus White Tea — will be just as tasty.

Pro tip: You can get a free one on Free Tea Friday, July 14, between 1 and 2 p.m. local time!