SAKE SPRITZ

Chill all the liquid ingredients, then pour them into the bottle.

Add the solid ingredients. Do not exceed the maximum fill level of 720 ml.

Insert an iSi Soda Charger into the sparkling wand and screw it onto the bottle until you hear a hissing sound.

Leave the sparkling wand on the bottle until the foam has settled and the hissing stops.

Serve over ice.

The Sake Spritz combines sake and elderflower syrup with cucumber and grapefruit to create a delicately sparkling drink. The syrup’s floral sweetness meets the fresh, slightly bitter citrus notes of grapefruit and the mild flavour of cucumber. Light bites and dishes that complement these fresh flavours while letting the sake shine make ideal accompaniments.

Savoury bites for an aperitif
Edamame with a pinch of sea salt, roasted almonds or plain rice crackers pair well with the drink’s delicate flavours. Small bites of cucumber with cream cheese or crostini with mild herbs are also a good choice. Season them lightly so the Sake Spritz’s floral sweetness and grapefruit notes come through.

Sushi and light fish dishes
Sushi, maki or sashimi complement the Sake Spritz with their delicate, clean flavours. Varieties with cucumber, avocado or lightly seasoned fish work particularly well. Steamed fish or prawns with a little lime and fresh herbs are also a good match. Very spicy sauces can overpower the drink’s subtle nuances.

Crispy vegetables and tempura
Light tempura with courgette, peppers or sweet potato adds a crisp element to the menu. The vegetables’ gentle sweetness pairs well with the elderflower syrup, while the grapefruit provides a fresh counterpoint. Serve with a mild dip and use strong spices sparingly.

Fresh salads and herbs
A salad with cucumber, young leafy greens and fennel echoes the drink’s fresh notes. Grapefruit segments or thin slices of green apple complement its fruity character. For the dressing, a little lemon juice, mild oil and a pinch of salt are all you need. Mint or coriander adds an extra herbal note.

Mild cheeses and light desserts
Mild goat’s cheese or cream cheese served with plain crackers makes a good aperitif accompaniment. For dessert, try fresh citrus fruit, slices of pear or a light yoghurt with berries. Very sweet desserts can make the drink’s floral and fruity flavours seem less balanced.

Serving and garnishing
Serve the Sake Spritz well chilled over ice. A thin slice of grapefruit or a ribbon of cucumber brings out its fresh flavours. It works especially well at an aperitif or alongside a light menu of small, mildly seasoned bites.

Recipe and photo: isi.com