Suigei Drunken Whale Tokubetsu Junmai 300 mL

Suigei means "Drunken Whale" — named for Yamauchi Yodo, the feudal lord of Tosa and a legendary drinker — and the brewery was founded in 1872 in Kochi City, facing the Tosa Sea where whales still swim. Kochi has the highest alcohol consumption in Japan and some of its best seafood, and Suigei's entire philosophy is built around that dinner table: dry and crisp enough to cut through rich, oily fish while staying easy to drink all night. Brewed with water from the Kagami river, this sake uses Akitsuho rice polished to 55%. Reserved on the nose — gentle rice with a touch of rose — then dry and clean with fine acidity and subtle umami. Chilled it shows pleasant acidity; slightly warmed, richer flavors and a longer finish.

Food pairing: Sushi and sashimi, grilled fish, tempura, oysters and other briny seafood — plus fried chicken and anything salty.