4 Drink Combos You Didn't Know Go Well Together

In the past, I have written about how I'm not a big fan of boring drink combinations. I'll try anything once and if I like it, maybe even twice — but I try not to stick to the same drink two times in a row when there are literally a million other options out there. And if you ask me, the wackier the flavor combo, the better.

Granted, I have my old standbys (like Jameson and Diet Coke, coffee, wine, cucumber water), but lately, I've been experimenting with more robust and "out-there" flavor combinations. Summer is the perfect time to experiment in the kitchen, because most fresh fruits and herbs are in-season. Also, it's summer, so do you really need an excuse to sip an ice cold drink by the pool? I think not.

The great part about these drink flavor combinations is that they shouldn't go well together, but THEY DO. It's a scientific phenomenon, really. So although these combinations may seem super weird at first, I'm going to borrow a page from my Alabama friends' collective book, and use one of their favorite Southern sayings: "don't knock it 'till ya try it."

Here are four drink flavor combinations that you probably didn't know went well together.

1. Strawberry + Balsamic Vinegar

I know what you're probably thinking, and it's something along the lines of, "Ew, I'm not putting salad dressing in my cocktail. Barf." But, just like in your favorite salad, the balsamic vinegar in this soda brings out the natural sweetness of the strawberries.

2. Blueberry + Basil

This ~*fancy*~ margarita is a far cry from your basil pesto. The blueberries sweeten and mellow out the basil's sharp bite, and the tequila rounds everything out. Go ahead and drink this before your next spin class, because this marg is chock full of antioxidants. (Just kidding! Please don't do that; that sounds like a terrible idea.)

3. Matcha + Mint

Drink this iced tea, if only for the alliteration (and the fact that it's Grinch green). Also, it's supposedly super refreshing.

4. Whiskey and Tea

This is not your grandma's old Hot Toddy. Try mixing your whiskey with a floral-flavored tea to tame the harsh, alcoholic taste and lighten things up for summertime.

Images: The Kitchn (2), How Sweet Eats, Love and Lemons