Sushi and wine is a pairing that rewards experimentation. The dominant flavours at a sushi meal — umami-rich soy sauce, sharp wasabi, delicate raw fish, and vinegared rice — create a complex palate that requires wines with freshness, clean fruit, and low tannin. Champagne and sparkling wines are the most celebrated sushi pairings: their acidity, minerality, and effervescence cut through soy and refresh the palate between pieces. Dry Riesling, Grüner Veltliner, and light Pinot Gris are the go-to still wines. Avoid oaky whites and tannic reds, both of which clash with soy sauce.
The best wines for sushi
Sparkling Classic
8–10°CNon-vintage Champagne's acidity and bubbles cut through rich soy-based sauces and refresh the palate between delicate bites. Its mineral and citrus character complements fish without competing.
The celebrated luxury pairing for an omakase progression.
Dry German Riesling
8–11°CA dry or off-dry Mosel Riesling's high acidity, petrol and citrus notes, and relatively low alcohol are an elegant match for sushi. It doesn't compete with the fish's delicacy and handles the soy-wasabi flavours with grace.
Ideal across all sushi styles, especially white fish and scallop.
Austrian Mineral
8–11°CA Wachau Grüner Veltliner's characteristic white pepper, citrus, and mineral notes are a natural companion for sushi. Its clean finish and low oakiness ensure it never overwhelms delicate raw fish.
Excellent with nigiri, sashimi, and white fish rolls.
Light Sparkling
8–10°CA Prosecco Superiore with its gentle bubbles and soft apple-pear character is an accessible and food-friendly sushi pairing. Lower acidity than Champagne, but still refreshing and non-competitive with fish.
A crowd-pleasing match for mixed rolls and light sushi platters.
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Get started — freeSushi and wine — frequently asked questions
What wine goes best with sushi?
Champagne or a high-quality sparkling wine is the most celebrated pairing. Among still wines, a dry Riesling or Grüner Veltliner are the most reliable choices — both have the acidity and freshness to complement delicate fish without competing with soy sauce.
Does red wine work with sushi?
Rarely. Tannic reds clash with the iodine notes in raw fish and with soy sauce, creating a metallic or bitter taste. The one exception is a very light, chilled Pinot Noir alongside a salmon roll, but even then a dry Riesling is usually a better choice.
What wine pairs with spicy tuna rolls?
A dry or off-dry Riesling is ideal — its acidity and slight sweetness tame the spice while complementing the tuna. A light Gewürztraminer can work for very spicy preparations. Avoid tannic reds.
Is sake better than wine with sushi?
Sake is the most traditional pairing, but wine is equally valid and arguably more versatile when you're eating a variety of rolls and sashimi. Champagne and dry Riesling are considered equal to sake as sushi companions by most sommeliers.