Ginjo sake has had at least 40% of the rice polished away in the brewing process. If it is labeled only as Ginjo, it means that distilled alcohol was added (known as Honjozo Ginjo); if it is labeled as Junmai Ginjo, then no alcohol was added.

Ginjo sake is a "special designation" sake; it is more delicate, elegant and complex than an entry level sake. Special yeast and lower fermentation temperatures result in a more aromatic sake with greater finesse. Pair these with sushi, pan seared scallops or lemon grass soup.