Many of us have our personal favorites that we like to mix up and match with other drinks to enhance the taste, but some mixtures sound so outlandish that you’d never dare to give them a shot.

However, as odd as they may appear, and even if they might seem a little too daring, unexpected drink pairings are a growing trend and are quickly gaining popularity.

1. Red Wine and Cola

Red wine and cola combination might make some skeptics cringe, starting to believe it’s nonsense to tamper with such classic beverages. But trust us; it’s a thing, and it is slowly becoming a trend.

This unconventional wine and cola cocktail concoction is slowly climbing in fame and is fast becoming popular. A typical beginner’s combo would include a lighter bodied red wine such as pinot noir with the cola of your choice. The idea is to transform a typical weeknight drink into a particular and exciting experience.

2. Beer and Lemonade

This combo comes from Germany and has been customary long before any of us knew about it. Called a Radler in German, it is a combination of beer and lemonade to give a low alcohol percentage drink, ideal for all-day drinking or afternoon drinking.

Radler, which means cyclist in German, was invented in 1922 when a group of cyclists came across a bar and didn’t want to wild out too early but still needed a refreshing drink while cycling.

3. Scotch and Tea

Scotch has always been a drink of sophistication and class, but have you ever tried drinking it with tea? Combining scotch whiskey with a bold, full-bodied tea can truly make a difference in experiencing both drinks’ flavors.

4. Tequila and Coffee

If you’re fond of tequila and coffee, this combo might sound strange, but it’s a perfect lazy Sunday cocktail.

Combine taquila, espresso/cold brew, chocolate sauce/maple syrup, and ice together, shake and pour over ice cubes for an exciting morning treat.

5. Dark Beer and Cola Syrup

Add cola syrup to a dark beer to create a magic concoction that tastes like you have crafted a root beer float in a beer glass.

Variations of this combo exist worldwide, but the tricks generally are using a dark ale or porter and mixing it with a cola syrup, then enjoying the fantastic science experiment that ensues.

6. Gin and Hot Sauce

For all the fans of spice, gin and hot sauce make a perfect match. If you’re a lover of contradictions with a bit of a kick, mix gin with any hot sauce and tonic water for a spicy, potent cocktail.

This cocktail is perfect for anyone who wants to push outside of their comfort zone.

7. Champagne and Sorbet

Sipping champagne with sorbet on a hot day is simply luxurious. Whether you’re looking for something fancy to make any memorable occasion or just a refreshing cocktail to brighten any day, this mix is your answer.

8. Guinness and Champagne

When you’re feeling fancy or want to mix things up, combine Guinness and champagne to create the Black Velvet, an unexpected and exciting cocktail that challenges all traditional norms.