News channel Forbes.com recently wrote a great feature story about how pickleball and large alcohol brands have realized how much one pastime complements the other.
The two are now seen hand-in-hand all over the land as “boozy pickleball experiences” take off in a big way.
“Boozy Pickleball Experiences”
It’s fascinating to see how pickleball, a relatively new and rapidly growing paddle sport, has become intertwined with the world of alcohol brands and experiential packages. One of our articles covered the recent sponsorship deal between Deep Eddy Vodka and the PPA.
The convergence of pickleball and socializing seems to have struck a chord, giving rise to unique offerings at various establishments, ranging from hotels to resorts. These partnerships aim to cater to pickleball’s growing popularity while providing participants with a social and luxurious experience.
Of course, the idea of pickleball and alcohol being ideal bedfellows is nothing new. For example, you could have attended the “Drink And Dink Pickleball Mixer” back in July 2021 in Raleigh, NC.
The difference now is the corporate angle and how resorts and hotels have cottoned on.
Some notable examples mentioned in the article include:
Carneros Resort and Spa in Napa Valley
This resort has introduced two pickleball courts in collaboration with Veuve Clicquot. The courts are complemented by the Veuve Clicquot Champagne Bar & Lounge for post-game relaxation with bottle service.
Guests can also enjoy a “Rally, Relax and Repeat” package, which includes playtime, Veuve Clicquot bottle service, and a light food pairing menu.
"Dink Responsibly and Have a Ball @Pickles" #Pickleball #Dink #Drink #ClimateControlled #Indoor #TournamentSized #DinkingCourts #Lounge #Mezzanine #Beer #Wine #Cafe #Shop pic.twitter.com/rlt7clSMnk
— Pickles (@PicklesNe) June 10, 2021
Anaba Wines, Sonoma, CA
Anaba Wines have partnered with Krishna Raichura, PPR Certified Pro Instructor and Founder of Pickleball Organized, to bring their members a “dink and sip” experience. Join their Wine Club and enjoy a complimentary 1-hour pickleball class.
Kimpton La Peer in West Hollywood
This hotel has added a state-of-the-art pickleball court on its rooftop in partnership with Grey Goose premium vodka. Signature cocktails from Grey Goose enhance the court experience, and guests can even try the “Pickleball Punch.”
Del Mar Wine & Food Festival in San Diego
The festival features a celebrity pickleball tournament sponsored by Whispering Angel, a Provençal rosé brand. The event aims to attract both pickleball enthusiasts and wine lovers.
M Social Hotel Times Square New York
This hotel offers a unique experience with a miniature pickleball court located seven floors above Times Square. Guests can enjoy court time and a Honey Deuce cocktail, the official drink of the U.S. Open.
Cliff Drysdale at Chateau Elan Winery & Resort
This resort in Georgia offers a wine and pickleball weekend that includes pickleball instruction and court time, along with wine tours and tastings. It’s a comprehensive package that combines sports and relaxation.
Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club in Brewster, Massachusetts
The resort features six pickleball courts with a unique cocktail menu inspired by the sport. The Pickleball Pop-Up Bar offers creative drinks like the Two Bounce Rule.
Overall, the concept of boozy pickleball experiences exemplifies how businesses are adapting to changing trends and consumer preferences. They have targeted pickleball as an up-and-coming sport played by exactly the kind of demographic that they wish to attract and for whom the social aspect of the sport is as important as the physical.
