Best Wine to Pair with Sushi

Nigiri sushi, featuring slices of raw fish atop seasoned rice, pairs exceptionally well with a dry Riesling, whose bright acidity and citrus notes highlight the freshness of the fish without overwhelming the rice. For a festive pairing, Champagne offers lively bubbles and a clean finish that refreshes the palate between bites.

Sashimi’s pure, unadorned slices of raw fish call for wines that accentuate their subtlety. Sauvignon Blanc brings crisp acidity and herbal undertones that enhance the fish’s natural flavors. Alternatively, Prosecco delivers gentle effervescence and a touch of fruit that complements the clean, delicate texture of sashimi.

Maki rolls, with their combination of rice, seaweed, and various fillings, benefit from the refreshing qualities of Pinot Grigio. Its light body and citrus notes balance the flavors without masking them. Cava, a sparkling wine from Spain, offers a dry, crisp profile that pairs beautifully with both traditional and creative maki rolls.

Vegetarian sushi, often featuring ingredients like avocado, cucumber, and pickled vegetables, is complemented by the zesty, herbal qualities of Grüner Veltliner. For a slightly fruitier option, Rosé delivers a refreshing acidity and subtle berry notes that work well with a variety of plant-based sushi flavors.

Sushi rolls that include tempura-fried ingredients have a light, crispy texture that pairs nicely with an unoaked Chardonnay, whose lively acidity and apple notes cut through the subtle richness. For something sparkling, Sekt (German sparkling wine) offers bright bubbles and a clean finish that refreshes the palate with each bite.

• Choose wines with bright acidity – This will complement sushi’s fresh and delicate flavors without overwhelming them.
• Consider the type of sushi – Light whites and sparkling wines work well with raw fish, while richer wines can pair nicely with cooked or fried options.
• Balance the flavors – For spicy rolls, opt for wines with a touch of sweetness or fruitiness to counteract the heat.
• Keep it simple – When in doubt, a classic sparkling wine like Champagne or Prosecco is versatile enough to enhance most sushi dishes.