Starbucks tests latte with stout flavor

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 Starbucks spokeswoman Linda Mills. She said the drink is topped with whipped cream, dark caramel drizzle and incorporates a "chocolaty 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.