Japanese cuisine is one of the most popular and sought-after in the UK and around the world, known for its delicacy, freshness and attention to presentation. The complex flavours of Japanese dishes can be further enhanced with the right wine pairing, enhancing the dining experience and taking each bite to a new level. But which wines are ideal to accompany dishes such as Sushi, Ramen and Tempura?

In this guide, we explore the main Japanese specialities and the best wines to pair with them, with practical tips to enhance each dish and suggestions of wines to buy conveniently online at Svinando, your trusted wine e-commerce.

Japanese cuisine and wine pairings: origins and main ingredients

Japanese cuisine is rooted in tradition and simplicity of ingredients, in which rice, fresh fish, vegetables, seaweed and miso play a key role. In particular, dishes such as Sushi and Sashimi emphasise the freshness of the fish, while others such as Ramen and Gyoza offer rich and complex flavours. These characteristics require wines that balance, enhance and complement each ingredient.

Practical tips on Japanese food and wine pairing

Here are some pairing recommendations for the main Japanese dishes, with suggestions on specific wines for each of Japan's culinary specialities, for a successful wine and food experience:

The right wines to pair with Sushi and Sashimi

To best accompany Sushi and Sashimi, dishes that are characterised by the delicacy of the fish, it is ideal to choose a light white wine that respects these flavours without overpowering them. A Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling, with their acidity, can enhance the raw fish and create a pleasant contrast with the soy sauce, giving a balanced freshness.

What wine to pair with Ramen?

Ramen, on the other hand, has a decidedly different profile: its rich and intense broth requires a light red wine with fruity notes, capable of balancing deeper flavours. A Pinot Noir, with its acidity and fruity nuances, is a perfect match for both meat and miso broth, enriching the experience with an elegant nuance.

Best wines to pair with Japanese dumplings

When it comes to Gyoza, Japan's famous crispy and tasty dumplings, an aromatic white wine is recommended. A Gewürztraminer is a perfect choice, as its floral and spicy notes complement the savoury and slightly spicy flavours of the Gyoza, creating a pairing that enhances every bite. Alternatively, a Rhine Riesling is equally good at complementing the taste of Gyoza, thanks to its residual sugar and acidity.

 What wine to pair with Tempura and Japanese fried dishes?

Tempura, light and crispy, is excellent with a lively and fresh wine such as Prosecco. Thanks to its effervescence, Prosecco cleanses the palate between bites and is the ideal pairing with fried food, allowing the crispiness and lightness of this dish to be fully appreciated.

 Japanese-style chicken skewers and wine: Yakitori and Merlot

For Yakitori skewers, prepared on the grill, a young red wine such as Merlot is ideal: its sweetness and smoothness balance the smokiness and intensity of the chicken, making for a harmonious combination.

The perfect wines to pair with Japanese-style rice

Donburi, a bowl of rice with various toppings, can be accompanied by different wines depending on the ingredients chosen. For a seafood Donburi, a fresh Vermentino enhances the delicacy of the flavours, while for meat variants, a Chianti is the right choice due to its structure and ability to withstand more intense flavours.

Japanese vegetarian cuisine and wine: tips

Finally, for tofu and other vegetarian dishes, a delicate white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Chablis is perfect. Their acidity and freshness marry with the light flavours of the tofu and vegetables, enriching the experience without overpowering it.

Japanese sweets and wine pairing: the perfect ending

Japanese desserts such as Mochi, Dorayaki and Dango, with their delicate and slightly sweet taste, are ideally paired with sweet and aromatic wines. A Moscato d'Asti or a sweet Riesling, with their light sweetness and fruity notes, perfectly accompany the softness of Japanese desserts, completing the experience in a refined and harmonious way.

With Svinando, every Japanese dish finds its perfect match with our selection of high-quality wines. Elevate your dining experience with unique pairings and discover how the right wine can enhance the authentic flavours of Japanese cuisine.

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