Tokubetsu Junmai (Special Junmai)

Tokubetsu Junmai is a type of sake brewed using polished rice with a rice polishing ratio of 60% or less, rice koji, and water. It is regarded as sake with especially fine flavor, aroma, and color. Of particular note, it is distinguished from other Junmai sake by special production methods used during brewing. Because the meaning of "special" (tokubetsu) is defined differently by each brewery, the specific methods vary from one brewery to another. Tokubetsu Junmai is one of the Tokutei Meisho-shu (special designation sake) categories and is based on the labeling standards for the production methods and quality of seishu (refined sake). This supports the fact that the ingredients and production methods used give the sake superior flavor, aroma, and appearance, and it serves consumers as an important indicator when choosing high-quality sake.