As soon as September (or August if you’re Starbucks) rolls around, coffee shops start bringing back pumpkin spice, apple, maple and everything else that apparently sells out as a candle scent. While candles and drinks can both smell delicious, only one is actually edible. Which raises the question, which is the best fall seasonal drink?

I think there are three main contenders: pumpkin spice lattes, apple cider and chai lattes. All three have their strengths, but only one can claim the title.

First, we have the obvious option: pumpkin spice lattes (PSLs). Due to decades of marketing, PSLs have become one of fall’s mascots. It can be comforting to have a warm drink to keep you company between classes.

However, I think the pumpkin spice latte is a little overrated. It is sweet, sometimes overwhelmingly so, and after the first few sips I find myself wondering if I am actually drinking coffee or just something vaguely pumpkin flavored. It is good, but by no means would I call it the best because that would be a boldfaced lie.

The chai latte, on the other hand, is one of those drinks that does not need much help. It is sweet, but not in the same way as a pumpkin spice latte, and it actually tastes like fall instead of relying on a collection of spices to convince you that it is autumn. For me, that is a win considering pumpkin spice feels so artificial on your tongue.

Furthermore, chai is more than just a fall drink, it has a deep cultural history. “Chai” translates to “tea” in India from the Hindi word “Chai”, which comes from the Chinese word for tea, “cha”, (History of Chai). While tea was initially associated with British imperialism, Indians eventually made it their own. Tea was boiled with milk and sugar, and spices were added to create what we now know as masala chai.

But, you can’t forget about apple cider.

Apple cider has everything I want from a fall drink. It is warm, spicy, slightly sweet and, most importantly, does not taste like someone dumped an entire bottle of syrup into my cup. The cinnamon and other spices give it that unmistakable fall flavor without making it feel like a seasonal gimmick.

Even if apple cider isn’t an everyday drink, it is my favorite option. I associate it with apple orchards, hayrides and fall festivals more than I do studying in the library, yes, but it also has the power to remind me of cherished childhood memories.

Of course, the best fall drink ultimately comes down to personal preference. There is nothing wrong with loving a pumpkin spice latte and a chai latte will always have a home on coffee shop menus.

But if I had to choose just one, apple cider wins. It tastes like autumn without trying too hard and perfectly complements a cold night.