As seen on liquortown.com.au
“Baijiu (in Chinese 白酒) simply translates to english as “white liquor” and is often pronounced as “bye-joe”. Baijiu is commonly distilled from Sorghum, however may also include other raw materials such as; Wheat, Rice, Barley, Millet and Corn.
Originating from China and being the nations choice of liquor, the production style of Chinese Baijiu varies significantly by province and region. Just like Scotch Whisky, it can be distinctive as Speyside Whisky that is to Islay Whisky renown for their smoky peaty characteristics.
Baijiu is reported to be the most consumed alcoholic liquor / beverage in the world. In 2018, a staggering 10.8 litres was produced and sold making it more popular than whisky, vodka, gin and tequila combined (Froissart & Martin, 2019). When compared to other spirits, Baijiu is a different type of alcohol altogether and within a class of its own. Baijiu is not as mainstream like whisky or vodka, however its accentuating taste and popularity is gaining traction across the World and captivating strong interest from liquor connoisseurs alike. With all that being said, Baijiu may soon be poised to take over the world! (or already has?).
Different Types of Baijiu
The quality of Baijiu encompasses specific elements including purity, aroma, taste and lasting fragrance. As mentioned above, Baijiu varies across different provinces and regions of China. The common categories of Baijiu comprise of particular aromatic profiles and taste characteristics that include;
Light Aroma Baijiu: Lighter aroma and easier on the palate with higher percentage of Alcohol By Volume (ABV). Typically created from sorghum and “big qu” along with other key grains such as barley and peas that is then fermented in glass jars. Taste profile of this spirit is more floral with sweet taste. Light Aroma Baijiu is renown for its popularity in Beijing and Northern China. Australian Baijiu is an exciting new Baijiu made with an Australian twist. It is locally produced from a distillery in Victoria using Australian Sorghum and encapsulates the key essence of light aromatics. In the consumer space, “Made in Australia” is not a statement taken lightly, so therefore expect nothing less than a quality product.
Sauce Aroma Baijiu: This Baijiu takes its name from the savoury flavours and complex aromas of Soy Sauce. Unlike other Baijiu profiles, this aroma is the most intricate and intensive during the production process. The process involves numerous distillation sessions, multiple fermentations, maturation and blending methods. Ingredients include herbs and beans that create a mellow taste sensation that lingers on the tongue. Sauce Aroma Baijiu is commonly linked to Suchuan and Guizhou province in China.
One of the most dominating brands in the market (that needs no introduction) is Moutai that is renown for its saucy aromatic profile. Moutai Flying Fairy Baijiu is the iconic signature bottle from the company and very popular across China and the World.
Strong Aroma Baijiu: A complex spirit with a higher percentage ABV featuring sweet and fruity flavours. The ingredients generally involve sorghum along with another grain. This profile is closely associated with the Chinese regions of Anhui, Jiangsu, Shandong and Sichuan. Yanghe is a popular contender for this category of strong aroma and has a captivating range of Baijiu with varying taste and complexities.
Rice Wine Bajiu: The lightest form of Baijiu and often compared to Chinese wine and Japanese Sake. Taste profile is typically sweeter and lighter. Unlike other Baijiu’s, Rice Aroma only takes one week to complete fermentation.
How to drink Baijiu?
Traditional Etiquette
The basic etiquette of drinking baijiu is simple. First and foremost, put away that Glencairn, whisky or any other glass you may have. Traditionally in China, Baijiu is served at room temperature in a small shot glass size between 30-50ml. Baijiu is often consumed with food or during dinner in the company of others and follows a series of toasts and shots.
To drink Baijiu, it is highly recommended to take gradual small sips. Embrace the flavours of Baijiu by letting it linger around the tongue and take a shot to appreciate the aromatic flavours. Whilst drinking, take note of the taste profile and complexity in both nose and the palate. When drinking Baijiu with fellow guests, be sure to raise your glass towards them as a sign of respect and say “Gānbēi!” (in Chinese 干杯).. this simply translates to “cheers or bottoms up!”.
Business Etiquette
In South East Asian countries such as China, it is common for people to accompany their managers or bosses to social dinner and drinks after work. In some areas, these often take place in the evening and can go quite late into the night. By partaking in such event shows respect, loyalty and commitment to the boss and the company.
In Chinese working life and business culture, the consumption of liquor can be quite intense. It is believed that one’s true colour is revealed when intoxicated. When negotiating a business partnership or seeking to gain a promotion, there is a tradition of consuming high ABV Baijiu at the dinner table in order to judge one’s trustworthiness.