Starbucks introduced the Frappuccino blended beverage in 1995.
The drink began as a regional product associated with The Coffee Connection, a Boston-area coffee chain. Starbucks acquired The Coffee Connection in 1994 and gained the rights to its Frappuccino name and recipe. Starbucks then rolled out the blended beverage across its stores in 1995.
The original concept combined coffee, ice, and a smooth blended texture, creating a cold alternative to standard hot espresso drinks. Starbucks later expanded the line with cream-based versions, flavored syrups, seasonal varieties, and bottled products.
The Frappuccino is often confused with a general name for any blended iced coffee. It is actually a Starbucks trademarked brand name, although not every Frappuccino contains coffee. The product became especially important as specialty coffee chains broadened their appeal beyond hot drinks.