# Expansive Pairing Cocktail pairings that think outside the box entice the adventurous. By [Rebecca Byers](https://www.trendhunter.com/becbyers), Insights Research at Trend Hunter | Published Jul 6, 2017 | Category: [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/pro/category/lifestyle-trends) Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/expansive-pairing ## Key Figures - Trend score: 3.0/10 - Evidence articles: 6 ## What is the Expansive Pairing trend? **Expansive Pairing:** Highlighting the continued interest in unconventional flavor combinations, consumers are opting to participate in avant-garde experiences that see cocktails paired with unexpected multi-sensory elements or dishes. This shift speaks to the expectation that going out for drinks is now a multifaceted event with one-of-a-kind experiences built-in. ## At a Glance - Evidence: 6 featured examples - Articles from: Jun 8, 2017 to Sep 19, 2018 - Published: Jul 6, 2017 - Patterns: [Convergence](https://www.trendhunter.com/pattern/convergence), [Divergence](https://www.trendhunter.com/pattern/divergence) - Megatrends: [Multisensation](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/multisensation), [Tribalism](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/tribalism), [Experience](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/experience) ## Audience - Gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia ## Themes within the Expansive Pairing trend ### Multi-Sensory Experiences The use of scents, sounds, and visuals are being integrated into cocktail tasting experiences, creating an immersive experience for consumers. ### Creative Pairings Brands are constantly experimenting with unique and unexpected food and drink pairings to appeal to consumers who are looking for novel experiences. ### Innovative Flavors Vodka brands are trying to reinvent flavored vodka by offering new, unique flavors that are more subtle and creative than typical fruity flavors. ## What the Expansive Pairing trend means for industry ### For Food and Beverage Innovative pairings and experiences are becoming increasingly popular in the food and beverage industry, offering new and exciting ways to enjoy food and drink. ### For Hospitality Hotels and bars are using multi-sensory experiences and unique pairings to differentiate their offerings and provide guests with memorable experiences. ### For Dating and Social Events Experiential matchmaking events are incorporating icebreaker challenges and unique activities to help singles connect and foster new relationships. ## Workshop question What one-of-a-kind experience can you offer to your customers in the interest of expanding on the conventional? ## Trend signals for Expansive Pairing Trend score 3.0 out of 10, from popularity 43%, activity 40%, freshness 8%. - Popularity: 43% - Activity: 40% - Freshness: 8% ## Examples of the Expansive Pairing trend 6 featured examples from Jun 8, 2017 to Sep 19, 2018. - [Cocktail-Paired Chocolates](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pop-up-kit-kat-bar): The Pop-Up Kit Kat Bar Pairs Cocktails with New Chocolate Flavors (Category: Lifestyle) Implication: The confectionery industry can benefit from exploring new flavors and ingredients, particularly ones that are based on traditional alcohol beverages like sake and liquer. - [Multi-Sensory Cocktail Tastings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cocktail-tasting): The Berkeley's 'Out of the Blue' Features Scent, Sound and Visuals (Category: Marketing) Implication: Incorporating multi-sensory elements into hotel experiences, such as cocktail tastings, to differentiate and attract discerning customers. - [Experiential Matchmaking Events](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-big-summer-party): 'The Big Summer Party' Connects Guests with Icebreaker Challenges (Category: Lifestyle) Implication: Event planning companies can capitalize on the trend of experiential matchmaking events to attract singles and create memorable social experiences. - [Experimental Vodka Flavors](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/polish-vodka): U’Luvka's Ultra-Premium Polish Vodka Aims to Reinvent Flavored Vodka (Category: Lifestyle) Implication: The alcohol beverage industry can benefit from partnering with vodka brands to develop innovative flavor combinations and packaging designs. - [Donut Cocktail Tastings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cocktail-tastings): The Clough Club Pop-Up Pairs Cartems Donuts with Mixed Drinks (Category: Marketing) Implication: Restaurants and bars can capitalize on the trend of donut and cocktail pairings by offering unique dining experiences and creative menu options. - [Russian Vodka-Paired Platters](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/russian-vodkapaired-platters): These Recipes Were Devised in Celebration of Russian Vodka Day (Category: Lifestyle) Implication: There is an opportunity for alcohol manufacturers to capitalize on the trend of creating unique and flavorful infused vodkas that cater to customers looking for new taste experien… ## Recent trend clusters - [Assisted Choices](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/weight-loss-medication-support) (Lifestyle) - [Storyline Sips](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/themed-drink-menus) (Lifestyle) - [Bedtime Cocoon](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/sleep-sensory-blocking) (Lifestyle) - [Source Signatures](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/oak-finish-whiskey) (Lifestyle) ## Trending in Lifestyle - [Mystery Packaging Campaigns](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cow-not-laughing) - [Multi-Benefit Protein Shakes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/comes-in-three-flavors) - [Creator-Led Learning Series](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/learning-series) - [Accessible Fintech Pop-Ups](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chequing-account) All articles: [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle)