Over the past decade of collaboration with StarChefs, Symrise has had the opportunity to explore flavor innovation not only on the plate — but in the glass.

Bartenders and mixologists across the U.S. have pushed boundaries with techniques, ingredients, and storytelling that make each cocktail a complete sensory experience. From savory twists to ingredient mashups that sound unlikely — and somehow work perfectly — these drinks represent the bold creativity we’ve seen throughout our 10-year journey.

Here are three standout cocktails that left a lasting impression:

 1. Cash & Carry

Fools & Horses, Portland – 2023
This cocktail reads like a pantry of unexpected ingredients: gin, fino sherry, toasted rice, coconut, miso, curry, lychee, and lemon. The result? A cocktail that’s layered, nuanced, and incredibly balanced — a testament to the art of controlled chaos.

 2. Champurrado Old Fashioned

The Fox Bar & Cocktail Club, Nashville – 2022
An inventive take on a classic, this drink combined Mellow Corn whiskey, Fidencio mezcal, mole-spiced Cocoa Puffs, Amaro Cociaro, burnt honey, and orange oil. It delivered warmth, depth, and a hint of nostalgia — both comforting and complex.

3. The Pepperoni Negroni

Pizza Marvin, Providence – 2023
Yes, pepperoni. This cocktail surprised and delighted with its clever nod to the restaurant's roots, combining savory notes into a spin on the classic Negroni. Equal parts cheeky and sophisticated, it proved how much personality a drink can carry.

Cocktails as Storytelling

These creations — along with countless others from our StarChefs tasting treks — reminded us that beverage development is its own form of storytelling. Each glass holds more than just flavor; it carries place, identity, and creativity.

Stay tuned as we continue sharing highlights from our 10-year journey — and follow along on [LinkedIn] and [Instagram] for more dishes, drinks, and stories from the road.