Starbucks tests latte with stout flavor

NEW YORK (AP) -- Starbucks is testing a latte that it says has the "savory toasty malt" flavor of a foamy mug of stout.

The "Dark Barrel Latte" is being tested in a handful of stores in Ohio and Florida, said Linda Mills, a Starbucks spokeswoman. She said the drink is topped with whipped cream, dark caramel drizzle and incorporates a "chocolatey stout flavored sauce."

Despite the stout flavor, the latte does not contain alcohol.

She declined to provide further details, noting Starbucks regularly tests new drinks.

Starbucks Corp., based in Seattle, has enjoyed strong sales growth in part by continually introducing new food and drinks.

The company has said it would expand its test of serving alcohol and small bites in the evening to more stores, for instance.

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