Black Sheep Coffee has launched a bold new line-up of drinks designed to “turn heads and satisfy sippers” – and fans have been rushing to get their hands on the unique menu treats. They’ve been hailed as “dreamy” and “so nice”, on TikTok and come in appealing bright colours. Many insist that they are the perfect drinks for summer – and I went to see if they’re worth it or not.
Black Sheep, which has 69 chains in the UK, has introduced a range of new matcha flavours like lychee, lavender, passionfruit, and peach, as well as a new lemonade range. “The new offerings are going to change the game,” insisted a spokesperson for Black Sheep.
Plus, the coffee giant, which launched in 2013 and has since spread across towns and cities in the UK, has brought back fan-favourite Norwegian Matcha Waffle, which you can order Black Sheep say these are “an irresistible indulgence that pairs perfectly with the bold flavours of the new menu”. You can also enjoy the waffles in a range of flavour combinations from Nutella, banana, strawberry, banoffee, Biscoff, or matcha.
Instead of wondering what to order, I’ve done the hard work for you; I decided to see how good the menu really is with a taste test – and I was left completely surprised, particularly by one flavour I thought I would hate.
Firstly, what I love about Black Sheep Coffee is the ordering system is easy. You can order via the till if you prefer a classic experience or if you prefer you can order via the self-service machines. The staff at a chain near me were super friendly, helpful, and service was speedy.
I decided to try the matcha waffle as well as four different drinks from the range, including the Lavender Lemonade, Passionfruit Lemonade, Passionfruit Matcha Lemonade, Lavender Matcha Lemonade. The matcha drinks are priced at £3.99 for a regular, while the lemonades are priced at £3.49 for a regular.
While the scent of a lavender sleep spray or bath bomb and walking outdoors near lavender plants sends a tingle in my nose and makes me feel calm, I wasn’t sure how this scent would work in drinks. It seems much like pistachio, lavender syrup has become the new ‘it’ thing to do if you want to seem cool in coffee crowds. People are ordering the syrups to their homes and Starbucks launched lavender flavoured drinks back in March this year.
And now Black Sheep have joined the hype. So as I saw lavender flavours on the menu, I eyerolled and thought it was going to be another trendy drink that doesn’t taste particularly great. But, I wanted to form a fair review, so I decided to try lavender lemonade first. I had also never tried a lemonade drink from Black sheep before.
Lavender Lemonade
I stirred the syrup sitting at the bottom of the drink around and it turned a lovely light purple colour. Expecting the drink to taste like perfume, I took a small first sip and my eyebrows immediately raised in surprise. Upon the second sip I couldn’t believe how nice it was.
This drink tastes exactly like Parma Violet sweets – which are known for their distinctive colour and flowery taste. It was like being a kid again. The lemonade and lavender syrup really compliment one another well. After a few more sips, the drink also reminded me of a Purple Rain cocktail.
Plus, the drink was iced perfectly so I found it super refreshing. I can imagine enjoying this on a hot summer’s day with friends. Such a surprise, and I will definitely be back for this treat. After speaking with a staff member about the new flavours, they noted they often make this drink while on shift and branded it “a favourite”.
However, I do think you need a sweet tooth to enjoy this drink, as I think some may find it a little too sweet.
RATING: 9/10.
Lavender Lemonade Matcha
After loving the Lavender Lemonade, I thought the Lavender Matcha Lemonade would hit the spot – however the experience was quite the opposite.
Firstly, after stirring the purple syrup around the drink, it formed a dark green colour which looked like pond water. I think many of us are used to matcha being a light shade of green, but this drink was swamp coloured.
After having a sip of the drink, I could taste each individual element of the drink rather than the flavours blending together. While the lemonade and lavender syrup work well together, the harshness of the matcha totally interrupts those beautiful flavours. Plus the matcha and lavender flavours combined tastes quite flowery. Honestly, it just feels a bit random and I didn’t rush back for more sips.
If you like harsh flavours, it could be for you.
RATING: 4/10.
Norwegian Matcha Waffle
This treat came on a plate in lovely branded packaging, and the waffle comes in an adorable heart shape. This treat is definitely Instagram-worthy.
The staff member asked if I would like sauce on my waffle, so I opted for Biscoff. The waffle was super soft and fluffy, and to no surprise the sauce was delightful. The matcha flavour wasn’t very prominent, however I actually like that I know I am getting the matcha goodness while feeling like I am eating a regular waffle.
Plus, this cute treat is the perfect size for a snack or if you are on the go. The staff make these delights super quick, so there is no fear of having to wait a while if you want a waffle.
I would order these again in a heartbeat, but next time I might add strawberries and Nutella. So yummy!
RATING: 9/10.
Passionfruit Lemonade
I knew I would like this drink as soon as I ordered it. Again, it is definitely one for those who enjoy sweet drinks and I thought it tasted similar to an iced tea. Super refreshing and can see why Black Sheep have added it to the menu ahead of summer.
I wasn’t wowed by it but I think it’s definitely a fun alternative to a classic lemonade and I think it will be a popular option. I also think kids would enjoy this delight.
RATING: 7/10.
Passionfruit Lemonade Matcha
This drinks feels different and refreshing compared to other matchas I have tried before. The passionfruit flavour and the thickness of the matcha reminded me a lot of a Pornstar Martini cocktail.
I have always found Black Sheep’s matcha to be one of my favourites; it is so smooth – and topped with the passionfruit makes it such a treat. I would definitely say it needs a good stir to blend the flavours as towards the end of my drink, it was just matcha and the passionfruit flavour had vanished.
It’s a fun alternative to classic matcha and coffee syrups. Plus, if you are new to the matcha scene, I would order this as the matcha is not harsh and easy to drink.
RATING: 8/10.
Will you be rushing to try these treats? Comment below.