(Picture by: Daniel Acker / Bloomberg News) Ever since the McCafe launch two months ago, sales of espresso-based drinks have met expectations or exceeded them in some markets, said Neil Golden, McDonald's chief U.S. marketing officer. Beginning Monday, McDonald's will offer free hot or iced mocha beverages every Monday until Aug. 3.McDonald's is trying to make Mondays a little more bearable with Free Mocha Mondays. From 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on four consecutive Mondays beginning July 13, the fast-food restaurant will offer one free 7-ounce McCafé Iced Mocha or one free 8-ounce McCafé Hot Mocha beverage per customer, while supplies last.

McDonald’s is offering Free Mocha Mondays to launch its new line of espresso-based McCafé specialty beverages. McCafé Mochas, available hot or iced, are a medley of espresso, whole or non-fat steamed milk and chocolate syrup, topped with whipped cream and ribbon of chocolate syrup.

McCafé Iced Mocha and Lattes — also in the McCafé line — are available regularly only in a medium size for about $2.79. McCafé Hot Mochas are available in three sizes — small (12 oz.) for about $2.29, medium (16 oz.) for about $2.79 and large (22 oz.) for around $3.29. Exact prices vary store to store. The hot McCafé line also includes lattes, cappuccinos and hot chocolate, in the same sizes and prices.

– Irene Kraft