JJ Buckley Fine Wines Blog

When most people think sushi, they think sake. While this pairing is popular, it’s not the only one. Sushi also works quite well with Western wines. Here are eight unique wine and sushi pairings to consider for your next gathering.

This dark ruby wine has long appeared in the Maremma region of Grosseto province, Tuscany. Morellino di Scansano is known for its more savory notes compared to other wines of Tuscany, and it has a rich fruit profile as well. The origin of its name is unknown, but some believe it comes from the Italian for brown—morello—with the word seen as an affectionate nickname, “little dark one.” Others think the name comes from the regional horse breed, Morelli, which has an attractive rusty red-brown coat. Still others think the wine gets its name from morello cherries, long grown in the region.

This dish is a beloved San Francisco original that developed in the late 1800s. As history goes, Italian-American fisherman around North Beach created the meal while out on their fishing boats. Those who hadn’t found success with the day’s harvest would gather around a large pot, asking fellow fisherman for whatever they could spare. And into the pot it went, along with common ingredients they had on hand.

Spain produces an abundance of wine and offers some truly palate-pleasing options to explore. The Gran Reserva reds of Rioja, the summer rosés, and the cult favorites of Bierzo are not to be missed. The white wines of Spain have recently become contenders on the world stage as well. Once you understand a few key distinctions and terms, you’ll know how to read a Spanish wine label like an expert and be able to easily select the right bottle for your table.

Though Syrah originated in the Rhône Valley of France and has become the most-grown varietal in Australia (where it is called "Shiraz"), its US-grown counterpart shouldn't be overlooked by wine enthusiasts. American Syrah wines are produced in California and Washington state, but California Syrah wine in particular has been enjoying a surge in popularity in recent years—and for good reason. This full-bodied dark red wine comes with a diverse flavor profile, has a strong initial taste, and pairs well with a wide variety of bold-flavored foods.