Baijiu Chinese Liquor 中国白酒
Baijiu (pronounced “bye-jyoe”) is often referred to as the national spirit of China that has been a staple in Chinese culture for centuries. Known for its potent alcohol content and distinct taste, Baijiu is gaining popularity worldwide.
What is Baijiu?
Baijiu, which translates to “white liquor” in Mandarin, is a category of traditional Chinese spirits distilled from various grains such as sorghum, rice, wheat, barley, and millet. This clear and potent spirit is renowned for its strong alcohol content and forms a significant part of Chinese alcoholic traditions.
The primary distinction between baijiu and other spirits lies in its potency, with baijiu often having an alcohol content that can surpass 55% (110 proof). Traditionally consumed neat, either in small shots or sipped slowly, baijiu has also gained popularity in cocktails that blend its robust flavors with other ingredients.
This traditional Chinese spirit comes in four main types distinguished by aroma:
- rice (floral)
- light (sweet and floral)
- sauce (savory, like soy sauce)
- strong (spicy and fruity)
They are produced through fermentation with a unique starter culture called “qu,” followed by distillation and aging, resulting in diverse flavor profiles from sweet and floral to strong and intense.
What type of alcohol is Baijiu?
Baijiu is a distilled grain spirit, much like whiskey or vodka, but with a distinct flavour that sets it apart.
Baijiu’s alcohol percentage typically ranges from 40% to 60%, making it one of the strongest spirits available.
What are the popular variants of Baijiu?
Baijiu comes in various styles and flavours, each with its unique characteristics that cater to diverse tastes. They are:
Jiang Xiao Bai (Light aroma floral Baijiu)
Jiang Xiao Bai is a popular brand of Chinese baijiu, with alcohol by volume (ABV) ranging from 25% to 52% is known for its light-aroma style targeting young adults. It features a smooth texture with subtle fruit undertones and a mild alcoholic punch. Available in various flavors like peach, it offers a unique taste experience
Kweichow Moutai (Sauce aroma Baijiu)
Kweichow Moutai is a prestigious Baijiu from Maotai, China, renowned for its rich history. With an ABV of 53%, Kweichow Moutai offers a complex flavour profile with notes of soy sauce, fruit, plants, and grains. It pairs well with various cuisines and symbolizes prestige and cultural heritage.
Niulanshan (Strong, spicy aroma Baijiu)
Niulanshan Baijiu refers to a variety of Chinese liquor produced by Niulanshan Distillery, known for its traditional distillation methods and distinctive flavors. The brand offers different types like Niulanshan Erguotou Baijiu, Niulanshan Chen Niang Baijiu and Niulanshan Bai Nian Baijiu, each highlighting unique characteristics and aging processes. These baijius are celebrated for their smoothness and rich aroma, appealing to both connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.
Is Baijiu good for health?
When consumed in moderation, Baijiu can offer health benefits such as antioxidant properties that protect against free radicals, improved gut health due to probiotics from natural fermentation, and potential cardiovascular benefits by increasing good cholesterol levels.
Tasting notes
Baijiu is clear and transparent, sometimes with a yellowish hue. Its aromas vary by style: strong aroma features fruity, floral, and earthy notes; sauce aroma offers umami-rich scents like soy sauce and chocolate; light aroma is delicate with apple and pear hints; rice aroma is sweet and fragrant; mixed aroma blends these elements. On the palate, Baijiu ranges from sweet and spicy to rich and complex, with intense, lingering flavours.
Food pairings
Baijiu pairs well with different foods based on its aroma type. Its strong aroma Baijiu complements spicy and fatty dishes like those with Sichuan sauce.
Light aroma Baijiu is suited for lighter foods like chicken, seafood, and salads. Rice aroma Baijiu pairs well with appetizers like ramen, tempura, and fried mushrooms.
Sauce aroma Baijiu is ideal for strong-flavoured foods such as smoked buffalo wings, fatty meats, and pickled or spicy dishes with minimal salt.
Can you cook with Baijiu?
Baijiu is a versatile ingredient in Chinese cuisine. It is utilized for marinating meats, intensifying flavours, and tenderizing dishes. Its addition lends a distinctive aroma and enriches the depth of flavour in various recipes. It is particularly renowned in dishes like Chinese cured pork belly.
How do you drink Baijiu?
Baijiu is traditionally consumed neat in small shot glasses, often during celebratory toasts.
What do you mix with Baijiu?
Baijiu can be mixed with various ingredients to craft cocktails that showcase its unique flavours. Common mixers include citrus fruits like lemon, grapefruit, and orange, as well as spices, ginger, and herbal liqueurs.
Popular Baijiu cocktails include the Daqu Me, Daqu Pineapple & Dry, Ocean Blue Spritz, and Ocean Old Fashioned, each offering a delightful blend of flavours and aromas.
Does Baijiu go bad?
Baijiu does not spoil like wine or beer, but it should be stored properly to maintain its quality. Keep it in a cool, dark place, and it will retain its flavour for years.
Notable awards
Baijiu brands have garnered numerous prestigious awards, solidifying their standing in the global spirits market.
Brands recognized at the IWSC 2023 Spirits Awards, such as Jiangsu Haizhouwan Baijiu Haizhouwanmian 15 YO Baijiu, Guizhou Rongtaihe Shaofang Stone Rongxiao Wine Group Shi Rongxiao Wine Zhenpin 30 Baijiu, and others, have earned acclaim for their exceptional quality and craftsmanship, further enhancing Baijiu’s reputation worldwide.
Raise your glass and embark on a flavorful adventure with Baijiu!
Whether sipping it neat or using it to elevate your culinary creations, Baijiu is a versatile companion that promises to delight the senses and ignite the imagination. Grab a bottle of Baijiu now and be fascinated by its complexity!
