What was Starbucks’ first drink made with cold nitrogen infusion?
Answer
Nitro Cold Brew
Answer
Nitro Cold Brew
Starbucks’ first drink made with cold nitrogen infusion was Nitro Cold Brew.
Nitro Cold Brew is cold-brewed coffee infused with nitrogen as it is dispensed from a tap. The process creates a smooth texture and a dense, cascading foam that resembles the visual effect of nitrogenated stout beer. Starbucks began serving Nitro Cold Brew in selected U.S. stores in 2016 before expanding it more widely.
The drink is based on cold brew, which is prepared by steeping coffee grounds in cool or room-temperature water for an extended period. Nitrogen infusion happens afterward and is not the same as making the coffee cold. Starbucks generally serves Nitro Cold Brew without ice so its texture and cascading appearance are easier to experience.
It is sometimes confused with iced coffee, cold brew, or cold-foam drinks. Those products may be chilled or topped with foam, but they are not necessarily infused with nitrogen at the point of service.
Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Sept. 2026