Photo credit: www.theguardian.com
The anticipation around Materialists, a film from director Celine Song, builds as Dakota Johnson steps into the role of Lucy—a successful matchmaker navigating her own fraught relationship with love. When approached by a potential romantic interest, played by Pedro Pascal, Lucy’s reaction isn’t just playful; it’s defiant.
“Sure,” Johnson delivers her lines in an almost hypnotizing tone, accompanied by a unique drink choice: “Coke and beer.” This unusual order invites curiosity and perhaps a touch of rebellion, suggesting Lucy is no ordinary character. It raises an intriguing question: what defines one’s personality in the realm of dating and social interactions?
The concept of a signature drink is often seen as a mark of sophistication, hinting at tastes that set someone apart. While most common orders might seem mundane, Lucy’s combination feels daring and expressive, challenging conventional expectations. It begs the question: does being memorable equate to being desirable?
Lucy’s drink choice serves as an entry point into a broader discussion of society’s evolving drinking culture, heavily influenced by social media. From TikTok challenges to bizarre concoctions shared across platforms, the idea of mixing drinks has taken on a new life, leading many to seek out their own unique blends.
Coke and beer
Although the trailer does not delve into the act of mixing Coke with beer, it hints at Lucy’s eccentricity—a portrayal mirrored in personal experimentation with this curious combination.
Curiosity piqued, I ventured to a local pub to experience this odd mix myself. Initially attempting to remain casual about my order, I faltered when confronted by the bartender. After tentatively explaining my request, she complied, pouring a half-pint of lager before adding a generous splash of Coke. The concoction morphed into a surprisingly palatable drink, reminiscent of a sweet stout.
Though it presented a refreshing taste, the experience reminded me that certain social norms exist. Rather than gaining the intriguing persona that Lucy embodies, my choice felt more like a breach of unwritten etiquette. Instead of enhancing my image, this drink left me questioning my standing within polite society.
Coke and red wine
In contrast to the unconventional pairing of Coke and beer, combining Coke with red wine is a recognized and even celebrated combination in various cultures, particularly within Europe. Known as kalimotxo in Spain, it carries a sense of legitimacy that made ordering it significantly easier. My bartender appeared cheerful as I requested this drink, reaffirming that its European acceptance bridged social gaps.
The initial sip resembled sangria—a delightful mix that quickly gave way to a heavier experience. It was apparent that while this combination may make marginal wines drinkable, it wouldn’t enhance a quality wine. Unfortunately, the added sugar and caffeine left me restless later that night, emphasizing the potential pitfalls of mixing beverages.
White wine and Sprite
The following day presented a new challenge: trying white wine with Sprite, a combination I anticipated to be lighter. Upon ordering, I noticed a hint of skepticism from the bartender, but the citrusy mixer provided a welcome contrast, softening the harsh notes of the house white. In a tall glass over ice, it proved to be a surprisingly pleasant summer drink, perfect for leisurely barbecues.
Chocolate milk and white rum
The quest for unique combinations continued with chocolate milk and white rum. Drawing inspiration from various viral trends, I decided to experiment at home after sensing the bartender’s disapproval of my previous requests. Unfortunately, the drinks didn’t match my expectations; instead, it evoked the clumsy impulses of youth rather than a sophisticated palate.
Orange juice and espresso
Aiming to regain some legitimacy, I attempted to craft a drink with orange juice and espresso—an idea that had gained popularity in trendy cafes. Despite positive reviews, the actual outcome was far from impressive; the combination clashed rather than complemented, leaving much to be desired.
Apple cider vinegar and prosecco
Next, I tried apple cider vinegar mixed with prosecco, widely touted as an autumnal twist on the classic mimosa. Initial attempts faltered due to poor measurements, resulting in an overwhelmingly tart drink. However, upon adjusting my proportions, I found a satisfying balance that made the combination enjoyable, showcasing potential for future outings.
Scotch whisky and coconut water
My next venture took me to the Caribbean flavors of scotch whisky blended with coconut water. Arriving at a pub without coconut water, I improvised by whipping out a carton I had brought with me. The resulting drink was light and refreshing, capturing the essence of tropical relaxation—an experience worthy of repeat.
Corona Sunrise
The Corona Sunrise, a trend that gained traction on TikTok, was next on my list. This lively mix of beer, tequila, orange juice, and grenadine turned out to be a visual treat and surprisingly uplifting—though perhaps too sweet for traditional tastes. It demonstrated how presentation could enhance the drinking experience.
Healthy Coke
By the end of the week, I opted to explore a lighter option: sparkling water blended with balsamic vinegar, dubbed “healthy Coke.” Despite its distinction, my expectations fell short as the mix failed to replicate the real thing. This reflection made me realize many of these trendy combinations arise from a quest for novelty rather than genuine flavor innovation.
Ultimately, while a signature drink may seem alluring, the implications of actually consuming these combinations often reveal a more sobering reality. The exploration highlighted the distinction between an intriguing concept and a satisfying experience, guiding me back to the safety of a familiar wine order—where comfort meets taste.
Source
www.theguardian.com