Although often grouped into the beer classification, premium sake seems closer in characteristics to wine. Serving sake hot is a classic technique traditionally meant to mask the taste of low-quality brews. But with finer sakes, chilling brings out the best flavor. While prices can go much higher, he doesn't recommend going much lower. Premium sake is sold in spirit stores throughout the United States but is easier to find in larger markets.
Some Japanese restaurants sell sake by the glass, a good way to taste on a small scale.
Sake is not meant to be aged. Buy sake that has been bottled in the past year. Not all list the date of production or list it in English. Beware of bottles that have been sitting long on a shelf. If possible, buy from a refrigerated case.