What is the purpose of different levels of cloudiness in nigori-zake?

The purpose of different levels of cloudiness in nigori-zake primarily pertains to visual appeal. Cloudiness in nigori-zake comes from the presence of rice particles or yeast that remain suspended in the liquid after fermentation. This characteristic creates a unique aesthetic that appeals to consumers, making nigori-zake stand out on the shelf compared to clear sake varieties.

While elements like aroma and quality might be indirectly influenced by the production style and residual yeast or rice particles, the primary purpose of the varying cloudiness is the visual impact it creates, which can enhance the drinking experience. This visual distinction is one of the factors that attract consumers to explore different types of nigori-zake.

Other choices, such as aroma enhancement and quality indication, are not the primary reasons for the cloudiness. The presence of particulate matter in nigori-zake does not inherently signal a higher quality or influence its aromatic profile. Similarly, while storage methods can affect the clarity of sake, they don't play a significant role in defining the specific levels of cloudiness found in nigori-zake, which are mainly designed for the visual appeal of the product.