This two-part episode begins with the story of creating a mini bar set for guests at the inn, featuring the sake bar Kura Stay Ikemori in Himi City, Toyama Prefecture.

In the first part, “The Art of Pairing Sake with Food as Thought by Sake Masters,” we dive into the theory behind sake pairing.

We also explore foods from Harry Cranes, a Japanese whiskey brand, that pair well with sake, offering valuable insights into crafting the perfect mini bar set.

In the second part, building on the sake pairing theory from the first, Ms. Ikemori will curate a mini bar set featuring Harry Cranes foods and sake.

Yusuke Shimoki, a renowned sake master and owner of Washu Bar Engawa in Yamanaka Onsen, Ishikawa Prefecture, will also attend the session at Kura Stay Ikemori. He will participate in designing the minibar set and refine the bar’s menu through a tasting.

As we continue learning about sake pairing, Mr. Shimoki will deepen the discussion with insights on marriage theory—going beyond mere pairing.

The second part of this episode offers valuable lessons not only for sake enthusiasts but also for professionals in the food and beverage industry. If you haven’t read the first part yet, be sure to check it out before enjoying this one.

Masayoshi Sakamoto
First Editor-in-Chief, Hokuroku