Japanese Sake Meets Italian Flavours at Exclusive Tasting at TOSCANO in Delhi

New Delhi, India – A day of refined tastes and cultural celebration unfolded in the heart of Delhi as Mika Eoka, Japan’s celebrated sake evangelist known as Sake Mom, introduced five exclusive sake variants at an intimate Japanese Sake Tasting Event. The event, held on September 24 at the Italian fine-dining restaurant Toscano, formed a highlight of the ongoing Japan Month festivities in India.

The distinguished gathering was graced by Ambassador Ono Keiichi of Japan, who joined guests in appreciating the artistry of sake and its harmonious pairing with Italian cuisine. The event underscored how sake, often regarded as Japan’s soul drink, is also a versatile partner to global gastronomic traditions. Japan’s National Tax Agency sponsored the event.

Mika Eoka guided guests through a curated selection of five premium sake labels, each introduced with cultural insights and tasting notes.

The lineup included the elegant Princess Marriage IKUS Shiro, the delicate Masumi Junmai Daiginjo Sanka, the crisp Hakushika Tokubetsu Yamadanishiki Honjozo, the layered Masumi Junmai Kaya, and the sparkling Hakutsuru Awayuki. Each variant offered a unique sensory journey, from floral aromas and smooth textures to crisp finishes and refreshing effervescence.

To enhance the tasting experience, Toscano presented an Italian menu crafted for perfect sake pairings:

• Antipasti highlights such as Avocado & Stracciatella Crostini and Gamberi Saltati (garlic-chilli prawns with cherry tomatoes) introduced freshness and zest alongside the opening sake pours.

• Insalata di Burrata with honey-roasted pears and pine nuts created a creamy-sweet balance with the floral Masumi Junmai Daiginjo Sanka.

• Primo Piatto featured Penne alla Romano and Ravioli di Pollo e Salsa Rosa, enriched by the clean clarity of Hakushika Tokubetsu Yamadanishiki Honjozo.

• Secondo Piatto, like Melanzane alla Parmigiana and Chicken di Toscano, found resonance with the umami depth of Masumi Junmai Kaya.

• The evening concluded on a sweet note with Alphonso Mango Chia Seed Panna Cotta, paired with the effervescent Hakutsuru Awayuki Sparkling Sake, delivering a refreshing finale.

The event not only highlighted the diversity of Japanese sake but also showcased its global adaptability, particularly when paired with European fine dining. For Indian guests, it was an invitation to explore sake beyond traditional Japanese settings and embrace it as a companion to global cuisines.

Speaking on the occasion, Mika Eoka emphasised that sake is more than a drink—it is “a bridge between cultures, a story of Japan’s heritage, and a versatile partner for any dining table.” Ambassador Ono Keiichi also noted that events like these foster deeper cultural and culinary ties between India and Japan.

As Japan Month continues across India, this sake and Italian pairing evening stood out as a celebration of cultural fusion, fine craftsmanship, and shared hospitality, marking another step in strengthening Indo-Japanese friendship.