What is nama chozo in sake production?

Nama chozo refers specifically to a style of sake production where the sake is stored without initial pasteurization and is then pasteurized just once before shipping. This process allows the sake to retain some of the fresh, vibrant flavors and aromas that are characteristic of unpasteurized sake, while still ensuring stability for transport and shelf-life by applying heat selectively. The brief period of aging at storage temperature before pasteurization can enhance certain taste profiles, making it distinct from other sake types that may undergo different pasteurization methods.

In contrast, options that detail full pasteurization before shipping or multiple pasteurization processes do not align with the unique features of nama chozo, which is characterized by the initial absence of pasteurization. Likewise, the suggestion of long aging without pasteurization indicates a different production style altogether, leading to flavors and characteristics that would not represent nama chozo.