Starbucks Korea will launch the Aerocano on its menu at its stores across the country, Thursday. Courtesy of Starbucks Korea

Starbucks will launch a new type of americano drink for the first time in Korea, targeting the country's significant scale of iced coffee aficionados.

Starbucks Korea said Monday it will introduce the Aerocano at Starbucks cafes here on Thursday. The Aerocano is an iced-only coffee that elevates the americano by applying a barista’s technique to create a creamy and velvety foam layer with a smooth mouthfeel. The Aerocano is made with aeration that creates an airy, creamy texture, softening the bold taste of espressos.

"The Aerocano is our new alternative for customers who enjoy classic iced coffees such as Iced Americano and Cold Brew. Customers can enjoy a fuller coffee taste along with the visually appealing cascading pour as the beverage settles," a Starbucks Korea official said.

The Aerocano's world premiere in Korea is backed by the country's unique coffee market, where more than 70 percent of the company's annual sales have been from Iced Americanos over past three years.

The trend has given rise to the term “eol-juk-ah,” short for a Korean phrase meaning “Iced Americano even if I freeze to death,” referring to those who stick to Iced Americanos even on the coldest days.

“It is very meaningful to introduce the Aerocano for the first time in Korea, a market with passionate customers and a distinctive coffee culture," said Alexandra Orsolic, senior product manager for Starbucks Asia Pacific. "We hope Korean customers will truly enjoy the smooth, creamy flavor of Aerocano.”

Meghan Choi, chief food and beverage development officer at Starbucks Korea, said, “We are excited to launch the Aerocano, a new take on the americano from a Starbucks perspective, for our customers who truly enjoy the Iced Americano.”

To celebrate the official launch of Aerocano, Starbucks Korea will hold a welcome event on Wednesday at Starbucks Byuldabang near the company's office in Seoul's Jung District.

The first 100 customers visiting the store will receive a complimentary Tall-size Aerocano. On Saturday, the company will offer the same drink free of charge to the first 10 customers at each store nationwide.

Source: Korea Times News