To determine if a sake is premium, you can look for the special designation known as “tokutei meisho-shu” in Japan. This term refers to premium sakes that meet specific criteria regarding the rice polishing ratio and the presence of added pure alcohol.
The rice polishing ratio is a key factor in determining the quality of sake. It refers to how much of the rice grain is left after the polishing process. The more the rice is polished, the higher the quality of the sake. Premium sakes generally have a higher rice polishing ratio, meaning that more of the outer layers of the rice grain have been removed. This results in a cleaner and smoother taste.
In Japan, premium sakes are further classified into different categories based on their rice polishing ratios. For example, “Junmai” sake refers to those made from rice that has been polished to at least 70% of its original size. “Ginjo” sake is made from rice polished to at least 60% of its original size. “Daiginjo” sake, on the other hand, is made from rice polished to at least 50% of its original size. The lower the percentage, the more premium and refined the sake is considered to be.
Another factor to consider is whether pure alcohol has been added to the sake or not. Premium sakes are often made using only rice, water, yeast, and koji (a mold used in fermentation). These sakes are known as “Junmai” sakes, indicating that no additional alcohol has been added. Sakes that have added alcohol are referred to as “Honjozo” or “Tokubetsu Honjozo” sakes. While these sakes can still be of high quality, they are not considered as premium as the Junmai sakes.
In addition to these classifications, premium sakes often come with detailed labels and descriptions that provide information about the brewery, the rice used, and the brewing process. These labels may also indicate any awards or recognition the sake has received, further confirming its premium status.
It’s worth noting that premium sake can vary in flavor profiles, aromas, and overall characteristics. Each brewery has its own unique style and techniques, so exploring different premium sakes can be a delightful and educational experience.
In my personal experience, I have had the opportunity to taste various premium sakes during visits to Japan and sake tastings. The attention to detail in the brewing process and the complexity of flavors in premium sakes are truly remarkable. The smoothness and depth of these sakes are often unmatched by lower quality varieties.
To summarize, determining if a sake is premium involves looking for the special designation “tokutei meisho-shu” and considering the rice polishing ratio and the presence of added alcohol. The higher the rice polishing ratio and the absence of added alcohol, the more likely it is that the sake is of premium quality. Additionally, labels, descriptions, and awards can provide further confirmation of a sake’s premium status. Exploring different premium sakes can be a fascinating journey into the world of sake craftsmanship and flavor diversity.