純米酒(じゅんまいしゅ)

A compound of 純米(じゅんまい) (pure rice) and 酒(しゅ) (sake/alcohol). Junmai sake is distinguished from other sake categories by the absence of added 醸造(じょうぞう)アルコール (distilled alcohol). This gives it a fuller, richer body with more pronounced rice flavor.

Sake classification hierarchy

• 純米酒(じゅんまいしゅ): pure rice sake (no polishing ratio requirement)
• 純米吟醸酒(じゅんまいぎんじょうしゅ): pure rice ginjo (rice polished to 60% or less)
• 純米大吟醸酒(じゅんまいだいぎんじょうしゅ): pure rice daiginjo (rice polished to 50% or less)

Common collocations

• 辛口(からくち)の純米酒(じゅんまいしゅ): dry junmai sake
• 甘口(あまくち)の純米酒(じゅんまいしゅ): sweet junmai sake
• 冷(ひ)やで飲(の)む: to drink chilled
• 燗(かん)をつける: to warm (sake)

Cultural note

Junmai sake can be enjoyed at a wide range of temperatures, from chilled to warmed. Its robust flavor makes it especially popular for pairing with food.