What is '特別純米酒' in English?

The term '特別純米酒' translates directly to 'special pure rice sake' in English. This designation in sake indicates a specific category of sake that is made from rice, water, yeast, and koji mold, meeting certain brewing standards that distinguish it from more basic types of sake. The '特別' (tokubetsu) prefix means 'special', which denotes that the sake has been produced with careful attention to quality, often highlighting a specific type of rice or brewing method. This makes it a step above regular pure rice sake but not quite at the premium level that other classifications convey.

The other options do not capture the full meaning or nuance of the term. 'Premium sake', for instance, does not specifically relate to the 'pure rice' aspect. 'Regular pure sake' fails to acknowledge the 'special' nature of the product, and 'superior brewed sake' does not accurately reflect the terminology used in Japanese sake classification. Thus, understanding how '特別純米酒' encompasses both 'special' and 'pure rice' aspects is crucial for accurately translating and classifying this type of sake.