Junmaishu (Junmai sake)

Junmaishu (Junmai sake) is a type of sake brewed from polished rice, rice koji, and water. The rice polishing ratio is 70% or less, and because only rice and rice koji are used, it contains no additives or brewer's alcohol whatsoever. As a result, Junmai sake lets drinkers fully enjoy the natural flavor of the rice and is characterized by a rich taste. Under the Labeling Standards for Sake Production Methods and Quality (seiho hinshitsu hyoji kijun), Junmai sake is recognized as one of the Tokutei Meisho-shu (designated-name sake) categories. These standards require good aroma, flavor, and color, but no strict rice polishing ratio is set. In general, Junmai sake offers a full-bodied taste and a rich aroma, which makes it an excellent match for food. Sake types are classified by designated names, and Junmai sake is positioned as one of them. This allows consumers to make reliable choices based on raw materials and production methods. Among all types of sake, Junmai sake is one in which the character of the rice stands out especially, and it is loved by many sake fans.