Book of Sake

This is by far the best book i've read on sake - it covers (in detail) the history and tradition of the drink from it's earliest roots to the pressures of recent years. It includes guidance on tasting sake (and what an official tasting is like), the science of that taste, in depth details of the brewing process, and a short discussion of some common brands of Sake. It won't provide ratings of sake, but it is a must for anyone truly interested in this drink.

Terrific insights into sake tasting, history, and culture, including fascinating tutorials on how gaijen should conduct themselves eating and drinking in Japan. It's a humble pulpy little book, but it's great.