Summer on Your Ultimate Guide to Wine Basics, Easy Bistro Recipes, and Wine Pairings

Yakitori and Wine: A Summer Marriage of Japanese and Western Traditions

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 02:00:00 +0900

Yakitori is the quintessential summer food in Japan. While beer is the classic companion, wine offers surprising and delightful pairings that elevate the experience. From salt-grilled skewers to generously glazed ones, each variation opens new possibilities for wine matching.

Basic Principles of Yakitori and Wine

Salt-Grilled Skewers (Shio)

Salt-grilled yakitori lets the ingredient’s natural flavor shine. This simplicity gives wine room to express itself. Crisp, chilled white wines such as Sancerre or New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc complement the charred aroma with their herbal freshness. Dry rosé is also an excellent choice.

Tokyo Wine Bar Hopping Summer 2026: A Sophisticated Escape from the Heat

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 02:00:00 +0900

Nothing beats the simple luxury of ducking into a wine bar on a warm summer evening in Tokyo. Summer 2026 brings a wave of exciting new wine bars across the city, from natural wine specialists to casual standing bars. This guide highlights the best spots to visit this season.

The Natural Wine Wave

The most significant trend in Tokyo’s wine bar scene is the rise of natural wines. Made with minimal intervention, these wines express pure grape character. This summer, Loire Sauvignon Blanc and Alsace Riesling are particularly popular for their vibrant acidity.