Tokutei meisho-shu (designated-name sake)

Tokutei meisho-shu (designated-name sake) is a category of Japanese sake classified by quality and production method. The classification is based on the labeling standards for the manufacturing method and quality of seishu (refined sake), and it is divided into eight types: Ginjo, Daiginjo, Junmai, Junmai Ginjo, Junmai Daiginjo, Tokubetsu Junmai, Honjozo, and Tokubetsu Honjozo. These types are clearly distinguished by their ingredients, production methods, rice polishing ratio, and the proportion of koji rice used, among other criteria. Only sake that meets the conditions for each type may display its name on the label. Tokutei meisho-shu is also an important classification that reflects the diversity of Japanese sake, and it serves as a guide for consumers when choosing a sake.