The art of pairing sushi with sparkling wine isn’t just culinary coincidence, it’s pure science. At the heart of this magical combination lies umami, that distinctive savoury fifth taste discovered in Japan in 1908. Found abundantly in seafood, shiitake mushrooms, soy sauce, and fermented foods, umami acts as nature’s flavour enhancer, amplifying both saltiness and sweetness.
Sushi delivers umami in spades: from the nori seaweed wrap and pristine seafood to the accompanying soy sauce. Method Cap Classique (MCC) sparkling wines contain their own subtle umami compounds that, while undetectable alone, create an extraordinary “umami synergy” when paired with umami-rich foods. The result? An explosion of complementary flavours that elevates both elements beyond what either could achieve solo.
A Partnership Born from Passion
Recognising this perfect harmony, The House of BNG and La Parada Waterfall Corner have joined forces to create an unforgettable sensory journey. “Marrying the fragrant, fruitful bouquet of our vibrant BNG Brut Rosé, with its distinctive red berry notes of strawberry and raspberry alongside expertly crafted sushi creates pure magic,” explains Bonang Matheba, founder of The House of BNG. “Every bite and sip delivers happiness on a plate.
“La Parada’s head chef, Sakihle Ngcomo, describes the BNG Brut Rosé as a “bold and brilliant” sushi companion. “The wine’s rich fruit profile naturally complements the spicy and savoury elements of our sushi, while its effervescence and bright acidity cuts through deep-fried components, creating a perfectly balanced tasting experience.”
The Perfect Pairings
Salmon California Roll
Fresh salmon wrapped in seasoned rice and nori seaweed
The BNG Brut Rosé’s balanced acidity and subtle yeasty character enhances the salmon’s richness while complementing the creamy avocado, creating a harmonious blend of ocean freshness and sparkling elegance.
Tuna Crunch
Panko-crusted tuna and cream cheese in a crispy deep-fried roll
The wine’s fuller body and vibrant fruit notes perfectly offset the dish’s indulgent fried elements, while its crisp acidity cuts through the cream cheese’s richness and oil, delivering a clean, refreshing finish.
Calamari Sushi
Grilled calamari with cream cheese and house tempura sauce
The Brut Rosé’s bright fruitiness beautifully complements the subtle smokiness of grilled calamari, while balancing the richness of both cream cheese and tempura sauce with effortless sophistication.
The House of BNG: A South African Success Story
Born in the prestigious Stellenbosch wine region, The House of BNG Brut Rosé represents a masterful blend: 40% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay, 25% Pinotage, and 5% Pinot Meunier. Since its 2019 launch alongside the original Brut MCC, The House of BNG has established itself as a “love letter to Africa,” gracing South Africa’s most memorable moments from President Cyril Ramaphosa’s inauguration to the Miss SA pageant.
The brand’s continued innovation includes the prestigious Prestige Reserve MCC, launched at the SunMet (Africa’s richest horse race), and the groundbreaking Nectar range, among the first African brands to produce premium sparkling wine in cans.
“The House of BNG has always been my passion project,” shares Bonang. “Champagne is my favourite drink, so creating my own MCC was a dream come true. I’m thrilled by the brand’s growth and our commitment to innovation.
“Known affectionately as the “Champagne Queen,” Bonang made the deliberate choice to craft authentic MCCs using Cape grapes rather than imported varieties. Working alongside acclaimed Cape Wine Master Jeff Grier, she sources only the finest grapes from Stellenbosch’s world-renowned vineyards. Bonang remains intimately involved in the creative process, from perfecting the balance of bitter and sweet to determining the ideal bubble size.
Matheba’s groundbreaking journey includes becoming the first Black woman to join the prestigious Cap Classique Producers Association, cementing her role as a trailblazer in South Africa’s luxury wine industry.
Experience this extraordinary pairing only at La Parada Waterfall Corner. Visit laparada.co.za/location/waterfall-corner for reservations and specials.
For more information about The House of BNG please visit https://houseofbng.com/home/.