With the onset of cooler temperatures and a distinctly crisp feeling in the air, it is undoubtedly starting to feel like fall. As we have made it past the unbearably h0t and humid Charlottesville summer weather, it feels natural to switch up your coffee order into something a bit more festive and season appropriate. While it may not be time for peppermint-flavored drinks and Christmas cookies quite yet, it is most definitely pumpkin spice season.
Pumpkin spice has seemingly made its way into every aspect of life— Pumpkin Spice Cheerios are in the cereal aisle, Pumpkin Spice Oreos are getting in on the fun, and there is even a Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask in a Pumpkin Spice Latte shade. Although I do think the pumpkin spice craze gets a bit out of hand, I am not one to spoil the fun. I wanted to experience the pumpkin spice joy via a caffeinated beverage, and instead of opting for the typical Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte, I decided to indulge in a delectable seasonal beverage from the Grit Coffee in Nau Hall—an Iced Pumpkin Pie Latte.
Admittedly, I am not a huge fan of pumpkin pie—I am loyal to a hearty slice of apple pie at Thanksgiving dinner. Despite my initial apprehension towards trying Grit’s Pumpkin Pie Latte, I was pleasantly surprised. The cool and refreshing sensation of the iced beverage was the perfect afternoon pick-me-up on my walk home from class. Despite the cold early morning temperatures, the afternoons in Charlottesville can still get toasty. The pumpkin pie flavor was sharp, and it instantly transported me into the cozy holiday season. I wanted to wrap myself up in a blanket next to a fire and read a book. I would classify the Grit Pumpkin Pie Latte as more of an every once in a while treat; it is not something that I would want to drink every day. Nevertheless, this iced latte did the trick for me, and it made me even more excited for fall.
Even better, I was happy to support a local business instead of stopping at Starbucks, which I can do anywhere in the world. Grit Coffee has a special place in my heart—it is one of my favorite places to study, to meet friends, and to simply relax in Charlottesville. The next time you think of making a Starbucks run for a Pumpkin Spice Latte, turn your attention instead to local coffee shops—they truly are magical places!
