If you are an avid K-drama fan, there are high chances that you’ve had your hands on (or at least read about) kimbap, kimchi, and of course, soju. But have you heard about its lesser-known Chinese sister, baijiu? The drink that is lesser known in the West yet popular enough in its home base. Unlike the West, where drinking is more often seen as a means of leisure, consumption of baijiu is almost ritualistic in nature. For all you spirit aficionados out there, we are getting onboard the Orient(al) Express to explore the world of baijiu. Hop on!
What Is Baijiu?
Baijiu (pronounced bye-j’yo) is not the name of one spirit. Let’s clear it right off the bat. In fact, it is a broad category encompassing all traditional Chinese grain spirits. In Imperial China, it was named ‘Shaojiu’ (burnt wine), while ‘Baijiu’ literally translates to ‘white spirits’. It consistently remains the best-selling category of liquor, despite most of its consumers hailing from just China and parts of Asia.
It is mainly prepared by distilling sorghum – a kind of a cereal crop cultivated for its grain. However, variations involving rice, millet and corn also exist. The preparation of Baijiu differs from region to region and is heavily influenced by local rituals and ingredients. Traditionally, it undergoes processes like steaming, fermentation, distillation, maturation and blending. But thanks to modern techniques, these tedious processes have been optimized without compromising on the flavor. A classic example of the old meets the new!
Different Kinds Of Baijiu
Just like mentioned above, baijiu is a broad category that houses an array of drinks. The variety that baijiu offers is on-par with that of gin and whiskey. If you need a tripsy… err tipsy trip around China, we recommend exploring the hundreds of varieties of baijiu. When differentiating between them, scent is the most crucial factor. Roughly, there are four primary categories of baijiu available. They are listed as follows:
Strong-Aroma Baijiu
This sub-category is the largest sub-category in terms of market share and volume, accounting for almost two thirds of all baijiu production. It is made mainly with sorghum, though other grains can also be added. It is fruity in taste, with prominent flavors of pineapple and banana. The strong-aroma baijiu is stored in Chinese traditional earthen pits.
Also Read: Country Liquor (Desi Daru): A Cheap Drink Or A Priceless Blessing?
Light-Aroma Baijiu
This sub-category from North China is known for its cheap and easier production cycles. However, it is also quite strong, with an ABV of about 60% or higher. It is generally fermented in stone jars, though earthen pits can also be used. With flavors of herbs, apricots, pears and pines, this sorghum-based baijiu is definitely not for the ones that play it safe!
Rice-Aroma Baijiu
Hailing from South East China, this rule-breaking variety of Baijiu is prepared using short-grain or long-grain rice. “How is it rule-breaking?” We’ll tell you how.
This variety of baijiu deviates from the traditionally-used sorghum and uses rice instead. Rice-aroma baijiu is typically fermented in stone jars for a week, but left to age for at least a year. This inviting drink smells like a platter of cooked rice with subtle accents of lemon, honey and grass.
Sauce-Aroma Baijiu
Think of sauce in the context of Chinese culture and the first name to pop up in your mind is that of soy sauce. Soy sauce also contains the same ‘qu’ as this baijiu (a dried fermentation starter used in making traditional Chinese beverages), thus lending it the same rich, umami flavor. One can also savor the taste of fermented beans, caramelized fruits, and mushrooms. This labor-intensive baijiu is known for being distilled from fermented sorghum repeatedly in stone brick pits.
Also Read: Everything About Shochu – The Japanese ‘Burned Liquor’
The Dos and Don’ts of Drinking Baijiu
Now that we’ve blurted out about the importance of drinking baijiu with etiquette, it’s time we share with you some tips. Note these down if you don’t want to end up creating awkward silences in the middle of your next ‘baijiu session’.
The Dos:
- While getting baijiu, always fill your neighbors’ glasses first. Showing respect for your fellow friends is the first step in winning some baijiu points.
- Always fill the glass to the brim. Neither less nor more. Less is poured by the stingy and over-pouring is done by the carefree. Make sure you are neither (even if you actually are).
- Do not forget to toast. The Chinese always drink with a purpose.
- Oh yes! Also, don’t forget to return your toasts. Returning favor seems better than risking offense, doesn’t it?
- Clink your way to the bottom: While clinking glasses, make sure the lip of your glass is below that of another’s. It is a great way to demonstrate respect.
- Ganbei literally translates to ‘dry the glass’. Drink the entire shot in one go. Though it sounds like a risk, we’d recommend just going all in!
The Don’ts:
- Do not drink alone. Drinking alone is seen as disrespectful by the Chinese, so let’s just skip that.
- Don’t sit on any seat that seems comfortable enough. Seats are usually reserved for the host or the guest of honor, as well as other important guests. If you are unsure about where to sit, just wait to be directed.
- Avoid toasting before the host. You are free to toast to anyone, only after the host raises one to three toasts.
- Whoever buys the drink must call the shots. So, only stop drinking after the host stops.
- Last but not the least, do not make a bad toast. Remember, make no toast rather than making a bad one.
Also Read: Beer Glass Sets In India Under INR 1000
Prominence of Baijiu In China’s Culture
Few other drinks are as embedded in their respective cultures as baijiu in Chinese culture. China’s drinking culture often sees the activity as something that is supposed to bring people together. It is consumed by raising communal toasts, and drinking without toasting or drinking alone is considered disrespectful. Safe to assume that drinking in solitude while you reconsider your life choices is not the best option here.
Communal drinking of baijiu, especially at weddings, parties, festivals and business meetings is considered to bring good fortune. Business meetings are often held in restaurants and bars that have tables lined with baijiu, so you are likely to be judged on your baijiu etiquette. In fact, it can act as a literal deal-breaker. By now you must have figured out that alcohol is some serious business in China, quite literally!
Summing Up
Baijiu is significant in Chinese culture as it has literally shaped the art, philosophy and politics of the land it was born in. Even today, it is viewed as more than just a drink meant to be consumed. Like other Asian alcohol-based drinks like soju, sake, and shochu, baijiu also holds prime importance in its culture beyond the mere tag of a ‘drink’.
We’ve now successfully reached the end of this Orient(al) Express. You’re all set to impress your friends with your knowledge of baijiu and hopefully try it out for yourself. Xiè xiè!
Also Read: Difference Between Sake, Soju, And Shochu
FAQs
Is Baijiu Like Vodka?
Even though both baijiu and vodka are clear spirits, their ingredients and production processes are quite different. Baijiu is prepared at a lower proof than vodka, lending it a more robust flavor than vodka.
Why Is Baijiu So Expensive?
Authentic baijiu made from the highest quality ingredients is usually more expensive. However, there are certain kinds of baijiu that are generally at a reasonable price and easily available.
How Do You Drink Baiju?
Traditionally, it is served neat at room temperature in short glasses. It is usually served during mealtimes and consumed in a series of communal toasts.
Is Baijiu Stronger Than Soju?
Baijiu is stronger than most kinds of soju, due to its higher alcohol content.
How Long Is Baijiu Aged?
As baijiu involves the process of fermentation and maturing, it is aged for at least six months. Higher quality baijiu is aged for as long as three to five years.
Why Do People Drink Baijiu?
Drinking baijiu is seen as a communal ritual in Chinese traditions and thought to bring good fortune. Having it together at important festivals, weddings and business meetings is encouraged.
What Is The Alcohol Proof Of Baijiu?
Baijiu is a clear, distilled Chinese liquor with a high alcohol percentage. Its alcohol proof can often lie anywhere in the range between 80% and 120%.
Is Baijiu Healthy For Your Body?
Research in China has concluded that consuming small amounts of baijiu has health benefits. Studies have revealed that drinking baijiu can improve blood circulation as well as cardiovascular activity.
