Elk Cove Estate Pinot Noir 2021
Willamette Valley, USA • classic
Cranberry, mushroom, and cedar with silky tannins.
Unagi Don
rice bowl • grilled eel • sweet-savory
Also known as: grilled eel rice bowl, unadon
About the Dish
Unagi Don is a japanese rice bowl that leans on rice bowl, grilled eel, sweet-savory. We look for bottles that respect the texture and seasoning without drowning the dish.
Our goal: keep the rice bowl feel intact while adding lift from Willamette Valley Pinot Noir.
Top Pour: Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
Earthy red complements caramelized eel glaze without overwhelming delicate fish.
Body: lightAcidity: mediumTannin: lowSweetness: dry
Why it works
- Mushroom notes sync with savory risotto depth.
- Silky tannin respects lighter proteins and vegetables.
Signature aromas
cranberrymushroomforest floor
Bottle inspiration
Pairing Playbook
- Mushroom notes sync with savory risotto depth.
- Silky tannin respects lighter proteins and vegetables.
- Avoid: very tannic reds, very dry whites.
Solid Alternates
Cote — Body: mediumCote — Acidity: mediumCote — Tannin: lowCote — Sweetness: dryMorgon — Body: mediumMorgon — Acidity: highMorgon — Tannin: lowMorgon — Sweetness: dry
FAQ
- What wine pairs best with Unagi Don?
- Willamette Valley Pinot Noir is our first pour because Earthy red complements caramelized eel glaze without overwhelming delicate fish..
- Are there budget-friendly alternatives for Unagi Don?
- If Willamette Valley Pinot Noir is out of reach, grab Cote de Nuits Burgundy Pinot Noir—it shares the same structure and keeps the food in focus.
- Which wines should I avoid with Unagi Don?
- Skip styles like very tannic reds, very dry whites—they fight the seasoning or overwhelm the dish.
- What if I want a non-alcoholic pairing for Unagi Don?
- Try sparkling water with a citrus twist, chilled oolong tea, or verjus spritzes—they mirror acidity without the alcohol.
Skip These Bottles
very tannic redsvery dry whites
Explore Related Styles
These bottles share structural traits with Willamette Valley Pinot Noir. Great options when the shelf is bare.