If you have been in the store lately, you may have noticed some changes.  The biggest change being the addition of our Mon Jin Lau Sushi counter.  That’s right, the quality sushi you have been experiencing in their restaurant since 1969, is now at Nino’s! And to be quite honest, I couldn’t be happier. I am a big fan of Sushi, but an even bigger fan of Mon Jin Lau’s – if you haven’t had their crispy duck, you must!

I have never been a big proponent of Sake, and I have tried a lot of it.  Though it may be the first thing that comes to mind when pairing sushi, I have been chewing through a lot of Mon Jin Lau’s tasty treats lately and have come up with some wines that I think pair great!

Lini NV White Lambrusco Emilia-Romagna Italy $14.99 –

I know, I know! Lambrusco!? Yes, Lambrusco, but this is not your Ma’s Lambrusco, all syrupy and sweet. This wine is what you get at a café on a hot summers day in Italy. Toasty on the nose like champagne, with creamy lush bubbles, and a slight hint of that ricey sake flavor on the finish.  Terrific with Spicy Tuna Roll or Firecracker Roll.

HB Picpoul De Pinet Coteaux Du Languedoc France $10.99 –

Picpoul is always one of my favorite spring wines, but it works very well with the delicate flavors of sushi.  Lime and grapefruit, fresh and clean, this wine would pair best with Shrimp Nigiri or the Rainbow Roll.

The Beach House Sauvignon Blanc Western Cape South Africa $9.99 –

Bright and refreshing, this wine would go best with rolls that feature cream cheese and avocado, with fattier fish like tuna and salmon. Loads of classic gooseberry and citrus, with 20% Semillon to give it some body.

Echelon Pinot Noir California $9.99 –

Soft and fruity, this tasty little pinot does not over power your meal, but can stand up to a hearty Godzilla Roll.  Light bodied with black cherry, plum and baking spice on the finish.

Keep in mind that there are many different types of sushi, from mild and creamy to bold and spicy! The key is to bring balance with the wine, so bright acidity for creamier rolls and a softer fruiter wine for spicy rolls.  Something like the Lini Lambrusco, soft and fruity with a dry finish will work best when sampling a variety of different rolls.

So next time you are in any of our stores, make sure to pick up some Mon Jin Lau Sushi!

Enjoy!

- Jennifer Laurie