[Traditional Alcoholic Beverages] Chinese Baijiu (Baijiu) | Editor: Mark Ma
A detailed introduction to Chinese liquor (Baijiu) | In-depth explanation by Hong Kong editor
Baijiu (Chinese liquor), a traditional distilled spirit unique to China, is one of the most representative alcoholic beverages in Chinese culture. Made primarily from grain, it undergoes multiple distillation and aging processes, resulting in a high alcohol content and rich, complex flavor profile. Its popularity has widened, making it suitable for both banquets and everyday drinking. The Hong Kong baijiu market is expanding annually, attracting a growing number of young drinkers. This editor will thoroughly deconstruct the world of baijiu, covering its history, brewing, styles, drinking tips, and the current state of Hong Kong! 🔥🍶🍚
Introduction and History of Baijiu
Chinese liquor, baijiu, boasts a millennia-old brewing history. Its raw materials are typically grains like sorghum, wheat, corn, rice, and glutinous rice. The brewing process is complex, using high-temperature daqu (Chinese koji) as a fermentation agent and then distilled to produce the liquor. Famous producing areas include Yibin in Sichuan, Zunyi in Guizhou, Suqian in Jiangsu, and Bozhou in Anhui.
Brewing process
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Raw material preparation : mainly high-quality grains;
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Fermentation agent : Qu (Daqu, Xiaoqu, Hongqu) promotes saccharification and fermentation;
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Fermentation : Solid-state fermentation is a complex process that takes several months;
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Distillation : using traditional continuous or single distillation technology;
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Aging : Store in oak barrels or ceramic jars to mature and develop a mellow taste.
Liquor flavor classification
| Fragrance | Representative Brands | Taste characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Sauce-flavored | Moutai and Langjiu | It has a soy sauce-like aroma, rich and mellow taste with a long aftertaste |
| Strong aroma | Wuliangye, Yanghe | Rich aroma, soft sweetness, and mellow taste |
| Light fragrance | Fenjiu | Fresh and clean, with a sharp taste and a fruity aftertaste |
| Mixed fragrance | Gujing Gongjiu | Combining the aroma of Luzhou and Maotai, the aroma is complex and rich in layers |
| Rice-flavored | Guilin Sanhua Liquor | Rice-based, with a soft, sweet taste and a fresh aroma |
Liquor Flavor and Drinking
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The wine can be full-bodied or light, with a multi-layered taste, including sweet, bitter, and spicy flavors;
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The alcohol concentration is generally between 38% and 53%, which is strong and stimulating;
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The traditional way to drink it is to drink it neat at room temperature, pouring it slowly from a small cup;
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It can be used in cooking, such as stewing chicken and braising pork, to add flavor.
Hong Kong Market and Hot-selling Brands
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Moutai
A representative of national liquor, it is expensive and has a unique sauce-flavored flavor that is well-known. -
Wuliangye
The strong-aroma liquor is mellow and delicate, and is deeply loved by Hong Kong consumers. -
Yanghe Blue Classic <br>Soft wine, suitable for both beginners and collectors.
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Gujing Gongjiu <br>Complex aroma and affordable price.
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Langjiu <br>High-quality sauce-flavored liquor, known for its mellow and rich aroma.
Editor's Tips💡
Baijiu (Chinese liquor) boasts a rich heritage, representing Chinese cultural traditions and toasting etiquette. Demand for high-quality baijiu has grown in Hong Kong in recent years. Baijiu is consumed with a keen eye for pairing with food, and the choice of vessel and serving temperature are crucial to unleash the wine's optimal flavor.
Editor's summary
Chinese baijiu (baijiu) is a classic spirit that captures both taste and culture. Its rich aroma and flavor are highly prized by Chinese people worldwide. Hong Kong drinkers are beginning to explore more, enjoying traditional baijiu more often to not only refresh their minds but also experience the essence of Chinese flavors. Try different baijiu flavors at your next party—I'm sure you'll find something you like! Cheers! 🍶🇨🇳🔥🍚
