Kanpai - by Eric C Rath (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

Lift a glass to the story of sake--from Japanese homebrew to global phenomenon.

Sake, Japan's iconic rice-based alcoholic drink, has been central to Japanese culture for over 1,300 years. Traditionally made with rice, water, and koji mold, it was consumed in early brewpubs and was vital to samurai rituals and festivals. Sake's story includes homebrewers like clan matriarchs, ancient princes, and modern political activists who defied laws to keep homebrewing alive. Temples refined sake-making techniques, laying the foundation for a thriving industry that became a major economic force for shoguns and the modern state.

Kanpai is the first history of sake in English, exploring its evolution from homebrew to flavored varieties, and its cultural significance and global rise--including its growing popularity and production in North America and Europe. The book also shows how sake has shaped Japanese food, society, and traditions.

Review Quotes

"There are many books on sake these days, but none like Kanpai, which takes us through the annals of the history of sake, from medieval temple sake recipes to sociopolitical factors that influenced sake legislation, and from the history of izakaya to the industry today outside of Japan: the breadth and scope of sake lore makes for a fascinating read."--John Gauntner, author of "Sake Confidential" and co-founder and managing editor of "Sake Today"

"Japan's national beverage has achieved global renown, but its origins and practices are still shrouded in mystery. For those who want to learn more about sake, there can be no better guide than Rath. This authoritative and entertaining book leads us from the drinking games of medieval samurai to the rope curtains of modern izakaya."--Jeffrey M. Pilcher, University of Toronto

"A vivid history."-- "Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, on "Oishii""

"An enticing title. . . . Extensively and well researched, using numerous sources from both historical and current data, and brims with fascinating and often amusing anecdotes told in a nonacademic, light writing style."-- "NIKKEI Asia, on "Oishii""

"Rath's writing is light, unhampered by the weight of academia. He interjects personal asides, recalling tastes and experiences that add sparkle to his chronology."-- "Japan Times, on "Oishii""

"While Rath's text is eminently accessible to the food studies beginner, it offers bold insights for the Japanese culinary expert as well."-- "Journal of Japanese Studies, on "Oishii""

About the Author

Eric C. Rath is professor of history at the University of Kansas. His books include Oishii: The History of Sushi, also published by Reaktion Books.