Discover the Bold Differences Between Starbucks’ Milano Sole and Milano Luna Coffee Roasts

Starbucks has introduced two new coffee roasts, Milano Sole and Milano Luna, inspired by Italian tradition. The contrasting roasts, a light and fruity Sole and a rich, dark Luna, offer distinct flavor profiles that will appeal to a wide range of coffee drinkers across the U.S.

Starbucks Introduces Milano Sole and Luna Roasts, Celebrating Italian Tradition with Unique Flavor Profiles

Starbucks is expanding its coffee bean offerings by introducing two new roasts: Milano Sole and Milano Luna, collectively known as the Milano Duetto. These blends, available nationwide as of October 1, are a nod to Starbucks’ Italian inspiration. The origins of this tribute trace back to the 1980s when Howard Schultz, then the company's director of operations and marketing, visited Italy and fell in love with the country’s coffee culture. Inspired by his trip, Schultz returned to the U.S. to bring that same Italian café experience, which Starbucks refers to as the "third place," to American customers.

Tasting Table had the opportunity to sample Milano Sole and Milano Luna before their release, brewed in French presses to allow for a thorough preview. The two blends are composed of the same combination of Colombian and Sumatran beans, with a critical difference in their roasting methods. Starbucks coffee developer Sergio Alvarez, who has spent 15 years with the company after starting as a part-time barista, explained that the contrasting roasts were designed to celebrate both Starbucks' history (represented by the dark Luna roast) and Italian tradition (represented by the light Sole roast).

Alvarez shared that Starbucks' development team tastes hundreds of cups of coffee each week to perfect their blends. The Milano Duetto, the result of a collaborative effort between roasters in Milan and Seattle, was first previewed at the Milano Reserve Roastery in May 2024 before being launched to a broader audience.

Milano Sole and Milano Luna roasts are available in 250-gram (8.81-ounce) bags of whole-bean coffee, priced at $9.95 each. Throughout October, customers can also try roast brewed at Starbucks locations across the U.S. before purchasing a bag. Select locations will be hosting tastings of the Milano Duetto, and interested customers are encouraged to check with their local café for availability.

Milano Sole, a light roast, offers a faint, fruity aroma with a notably acidic profile—characteristic of its roasting style. While its flavor is smoother than expected based on its aroma, the body is thin, resembling a typical corner-store coffee, though not unpleasant. However, as the coffee cools, the flavor develops a slight sourness that may not appeal to everyone. Alvarez suggested that the Sole roast shines when served iced, though one journalist found it approachable even without milk or sugar.

Milano Luna Roast Offers Rich, Dessert-Like Flavors Perfectly Timed for Cozy Autumn Mornings

On the other hand, the Milano Luna roast, a dark roast, delivers a more robust flavor profile with aromas reminiscent of caramelized sugar desserts like crème brûlée. The body, while still on the thinner side, is fuller compared to the Sole roast, and its deep, rich flavor with minimal acidity makes it a more satisfying option for those who prefer bolder coffee. The Luna roast's slight burnt notes add complexity without detracting from its overall appeal, making it an ideal pairing with pastries.

As autumn sets in, the cozy appeal of the Milano Luna roast feels perfectly timed, and it’s likely to become a popular choice as the weather cools. Both roasts are enjoyable and accessible, balancing light and dark profiles that should satisfy a wide range of palates.

While neither blend is likely to win over the most discerning coffee lovers, the Milano Duetto provides solid, approachable options for the average consumer looking for a decent cup of coffee. Whether you prefer the light, fruity Sole or the rich, dessert-like Luna, Starbucks’ latest offerings are sure to find their place in the daily routines of coffee drinkers nationwide.