Which category does Tokubetsu Honjozo-shu fall into?

Tokubetsu Honjozo-shu is classified as a special category within Japanese sake, specifically categorized as a special honjozo. This designation indicates that the sake has met certain criteria that elevate it beyond standard honjozo.

The term "Tokubetsu" means "special" in Japanese and is used in sake classification to denote that the rice has been polished more than the minimum requirement for regular honjozo, or that special techniques or ingredients have been employed in its production. Honjozo means that a small amount of distilled alcohol has been added to the sake, which enhances its flavor and aroma.

While standard honjozo is more basic, being made with rice polished to at least 70%, Tokubetsu Honjozo indicates that it has been polished to a finer degree or that additional specific production methods were utilized, thereby enriching its flavor profile. This heightened focus on quality is what places Tokubetsu Honjozo-shu in the "special" category, making it stand out among other types of sake.

In contrast, the other types listed, such as premium ginjo or regular junmai, represent different categories entirely, with unique production methods and standards regarding rice polishing and fermentation techniques.