Introducing our new series The Perfect Pair exploring wine and beer pairings for seafood dishes of all kinds.
A great dish becomes even better when you have just the right pairing to make the flavors sing. Wine shops and breweries in the Boston area give ideas and inspiration for what to drink with fish-focused meals.
Their recommendations for a kampachi pokewould also be delightful with sushi or sashimi, black sea bass crudo, or some dim sum-style shrimp dumplings.
MAYHEW WINE SHOP
Les Pouches Saumur Chenin Blanc or Ameztoi Rubentis Rosé Saumur
Chenin Blanc has minerality that will dazzle a sushi dish. Ameztoi Rubentis Rosé’s pleasant acidity will leave your mouth watering.
BENT WATER BREWING COMPANY
Endless Rays or Premium Lager
Endless Rays’s lemon acidity highlights the flavor of meaty fish like tuna. Light-bodied Premium Lager pairs well with rich fish and salty condiments.
BEACON HILL WINE AND GOURMET
Chiaretto Rosé or Hakushika Junmai Ginjo Sake
Chiaretto Rosé — this Italian rosé’s light delicate fruit is beautiful with sushi and poke bowls. Hakushika Junmai Ginjo Sake is the classic choice for sushi: light, dry with a hint of fruit — always served chilled.
CASTLE ISLAND BREWING CO.
Hi-Def Double IPA
Hi-Def’s seven-hop blend conveys intense tropical flavors and aromas, including pineapple, mango, and papaya — they mesh beautifully with either sushi or poke.
MAGNOLIA WINE COMPANY
Champagne (France), Cava (Spain) or Prosecco (Italy)
A refreshing, lean, clean sparkling wine would seem most appropriate. French Champagne would be my first choice but Cava or Prosecco would work too.
DISTRACTION BREWING CO.
Daily Distraction or Hoppily Distracted
Bright and citrusy Daily Distraction will play perfectly with the clean, crisp flavor of the kampachi. Hoppily Distracted’s tropical fruit flavors will enhance those flavors too.
Sushi & Poke is the second in a series of six pairing ideas. Coming next week, get recommendations for Spicy & Bold.
Read recommendations for Fresh & Citrusy
Mayhew Wine Shop in Fort Point, Boston
Bent Water Brewing Company in Lynn
Beacon Hill Wine & Gourmet in Melrose
Castle Island Brewing Co. in Norwood
Distraction Brewing Co.in Roslindale
Magnolia Wine Company in Watertown