A 145-year-old Niigata brewery playfully suggests (and then doesn't suggest) dipping castella cake in sake. The Japanist taste-tests this unusual pairing, revealing a delicious new way to enjoy sake and Japanese sweets.

Kikusui Shuzo, a brewery in Niigata Prefecture, sparked curiosity with a tweet about dipping castella cake (a type of Japanese sponge cake) into their Funaguchi sake. Intrigued, we tried it. The sake-soaked cake offers a unique flavor, blending the sweetness of the cake with the rich notes of the rice wine.

For travelers seeking unique culinary experiences in Japan, this unexpected combination is worth exploring. The castella quickly absorbs the sake, creating a delightful burst of flavor with each bite. It's a different experience from alcohol-infused cakes, retaining the full flavor and alcohol content of the sake.

Whether you're a cake lover or a sake enthusiast, this pairing offers a satisfying experience. While Kikusui Funaguchi is recommended, other sake brands (avoiding overly dry ones) could also work. A quick dip, similar to sushi in soy sauce, is the key to prevent sogginess and maximize flavor.