Sake-Pairing Futomaki & Amabuki Rhododendron

Futomaki with soy sauce

Futomaki - Futomaki with soy sauce

Das passende Pairing Amabuki Rhododendron


As a European sommelier, one is often tempted to “think in terms of wine”. But with sushi, the tannins in red wine in particular, and often the acidity in white wine, can be too much of a challenge and make harmonious food-wine pairing impossible. Unlike wine, which very often wants to be the main actor and dominates a sushi meal with its tannins or its present acidity, the selected Amabuki Rhododendron sake is an unassuming match for the sushi. This sake has a slight acidity and no tannins, which makes for an optimum pairing. In particular, its creaminess and its touch of umami marry perfectly with the salmon and tuna-based sushi bites dipped in soy sauce. The sushi rice prepared with sushi-su has a slightly acidic component and forms a good balance with the also slightly acidic component of the sake. The pleasant “spiciness” is also just right, a successful combination.

Amabuki Rhododendron

天吹 Amabuki Rhododendron

Fine aroma from noble flowers. Mild umami and tender acidity. Brewed with yeast from the blossoms of rhododendron following the traditional kimoto method.

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Sommelier Armin H. Müller

Sommelier Armin H. Müller

Gourmet Wine Travel GmbH