Ikkyushu (first-grade sake)

Ikkyushu (first-grade sake) was one of the classifications once used under Japan's Liquor Tax Law to indicate the quality of sake. The system had three grades: tokkyu (special grade), ikkyu (first grade), and nikyu (second grade), and sake was classified according to its quality and brewing process. Ikkyushu was the middle grade, and it was valued for its drinkability and balance of flavor. However, the Liquor Tax Law was revised on April 1, 1989, and this grading system was abolished. As a result, ikkyushu no longer exists as an official standard today, and each brewery develops its products based on its own brand and quality standards.