Exploring Chinese Baijiu Culture: Origins, Types, and Brewing Techniques
Kweichow Moutai/Wuliangye: 10 Classic Baijiu Recommendations Selected by Experts That You Must Try (Part 2)
Kweichow Moutai/Wuliangye: 10 Classic Baijiu Recommendations Selected by Experts That You Must Try (Part 2)Kweichow Moutai/Wuliangye: 10 Classic Baijiu Recommendations Selected by Experts That You Must Try (Part 2)
In the world of Chinese Baijiu, Guizhou Maotai and Wuliangye can be considered twin stars, carrying the ancient brewing techniques and rich cultural heritage. With their unique aromas and exceptional quality, they have become stars on the international stage, attracting countless epicureans. Continuing from the essence recommendations of the last article, we will bring you five more classic Baijiu brands. Whether you are an expert well-versed in Baijiu culture or a newcomer just starting out, this list will guide you into a deeper tasting journey, helping you discover more of the essence within the classics.
6. Shui Jing Fang
Origin: Chengdu, Sichuan Province
Type: Strong aroma
Tasting Characteristics: Shui Jing Fang has a crystal-clear body, featuring rich cellar aromas and elegant aged aromas, with a smooth, harmonious palate that is soft and slightly sweet, and a delicate finish that leaves a lasting impression.
Signature Products: Shui Jing Fang 52 degrees, Zhen Niang Ba Hao, Dian Cang Da Shi Ban
Reasons for Recommendation:
Long History: Shui Jing Fang boasts a brewing history of over 600 years, making it one of the oldest distilleries in China. The discovery of its ancient brewing workshop ruins has made Shui Jing Fang an important symbol of Chinese Baijiu culture.
High-Quality Brewing Techniques: Shui Jing Fang uses various raw materials such as sorghum, wheat, and corn, employing traditional solid-state fermentation techniques and a unique microbial community in the brewing process. These techniques ensure the high quality and unique flavors of the liquor.
Geographical Indication Product: Shui Jing Fang is recognized as a national geographical indication product (GI), and its unique geographical environment and climate conditions provide a solid foundation for brewing, giving it an irreplaceable advantage in the market.
Market Recognition: Shui Jing Fang has received more than 140 awards both domestically and internationally, and its products are widely praised, especially occupying a space in the high-end market. It is often used for state banquets, business receptions, and as gifts, with its collection series and premium brews favored by consumers.
7. Jiannanchun
Origin: Mianzhou, Sichuan Province
Type: Strong aroma
Tasting Characteristics: Jiannanchun has rich cellar aromas, a full-bodied liquor, with a soft entry that is sweet and carries subtle fruit aromas. Upon entry, it is smooth with distinct layers and a refreshing aftertaste, providing rich complexity and depth.
Signature Products: Jiannanchun 52 degrees, Jin Jiannanchun, Shui Jing Jian
Reasons for Recommendation:
Long History: The history of Jiannanchun can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty, and it is recorded in the Old Book of Tang as one of the earliest court wines known as 'Jiannanfan', making it an important symbol of Chinese Baijiu culture.
High-Quality Raw Materials: Jiannanchun selects five types of premium grains such as sorghum, rice, and wheat from the plains of western Sichuan, using rare mineral water from deep underground, all of which ensures the quality of the liquor.
Market Recognition: As one of the four famous liquors in China, Jiannanchun enjoys a good reputation in both domestic and international markets and has won several awards, making it popular among consumers.
8. Gujing Gong Jiu
Origin: Gujing Town, Bozhou City, Anhui Province
Type: Strong aroma
Tasting Characteristics: Gujing Gong Jiu is known for its pure taste, featuring a delicate and elegant aroma. It has a smooth entry, rich fragrance, and a long-lasting aftertaste. The liquor contains over 80 aromatic compounds, with both kinds and concentrations higher than those found in other strong aroma Baijiu, making the layers of Gujing Gong Jiu distinct and delightful.
Signature Products: Vintage Original Series (like Gu 5, Gu 8), Lao Bo Gong, Ten-Year Aged
Reasons for Recommendation:
Long History: Gujing Gong Jiu's history dates back to 196 AD when Cao Cao presented the Jiu Yun Chun liquor from his hometown Bozhou to Emperor Xian of Han, which is now known as Gujing Gong Jiu. This long history makes it one of the important representatives of Chinese Baijiu culture.
Diverse Product Line: Gujing Gong Jiu has multiple product lines, such as the Vintage Original Series and Old Famous Liquor Series, to meet the diverse needs of consumers. Especially the Vintage Original Series, with its rich taste and great value, is widely loved.
Cultural Value: As the only Chinese famous liquor in Anhui Province (a GI product), Gujing Gong Jiu is not only a quality Baijiu but also an important symbol of local culture. It is often used as gifts or served at important occasions, showcasing respect for traditional Chinese culture.
9. Langjiu
Origin: Erlang Town, Guzhuang County, Sichuan Province
Type: Sauce aroma
Tasting Characteristics: Langjiu has a prominent sauce aroma with a rich and refreshing taste, providing a soft and sweet entry, elegant finesse, and a long-lasting aftertaste. Its aroma is rich and persistent, leaving a fragrance in the empty cup, showcasing depth and complexity.
Signature Products: Qinghua Lang Classic 53 degrees, Honghua Lang, Langpai Tequ
Reasons for Recommendation:
Long History: The brewing history of Langjiu dates back to the Han Dynasty, over two thousand years ago. Its unique brewing techniques and cultural heritage make it one of the important representatives of Chinese Baijiu.
Unique Brewing Techniques: Langjiu employs traditional high-temperature koji making, back-sand fermentation processes, combined with modern technology, ensuring each bottle of Langjiu has unique flavors and high quality.
Market Recognition and Honors: Langjiu has received the title of "National Famous Liquor" at various national wine competitions and is recognized as one of China’s two major sauce aroma Baijiu alongside Maotai, enjoying a good market reputation.
10. Xifeng Jiu
Origin: Liulin Town, Fengxiang District, Baoji City, Shaanxi Province
Type: Phoenix aroma
Tasting Characteristics: Xifeng Jiu boasts a bright and clear color, with a fresh and elegant aroma. Its harmonious body makes for a smooth entry, lightly sweet, rich yet not greasy, with a long and unique aftertaste.
Signature Products: Lao Lv Ping Xifeng Jiu, Hong Xifeng, Hua Shan Lun Jian Series
Reasons for Recommendation:
Long History: The history of Xifeng Jiu can be traced back over 3,000 years, formerly known as Qin Jiu and Liulin Jiu, and is one of the four famous liquors in China. Its brewing techniques are listed as a national intangible cultural heritage, bearing rich cultural connotation.
Unique Brewing Techniques: Xifeng Jiu employs traditional solid-state fermentation techniques, using earthen pits and large containers—liquor seas for fermentation and storage. This unique storage method endows Xifeng Jiu with its distinctive aroma and taste.
Market Recognition and Awards: Since 1952, Xifeng Jiu has received high acclaim at various national wine competitions, being hailed as one of the four famous liquors in China. These honors serve as proof of its high quality and good reputation in the market.
High Cost-Performance Ratio: Xifeng Jiu is relatively affordable, making it very suitable for various receptions, gatherings, and daily consumption. The balance between its quality and price makes it the first choice for many consumers.
Continuing from the highlights recommended in the previous article, we bring you the last five classic white liquors, taking you on a deeper journey of taste to discover more of the essence among the classics of Chinese white liquor.
Open the Wine Aroma and Taste the Culture
Through this recommended series, we hope every reader can experience the profound charm and connotation of Chinese baijiu deeply rooted in culture. From the widely recognized Moutai in Guizhou to the elegant and rich Xifengjiu, these liquors are not just a fine drink but the beginning of a cultural journey.
If you want to learn more about other Chinese baijiu varieties, feel free to browse our Wine Passions Magazine for more detailed introductions to baijiu, and we believe you will find your own
Kweichow Moutai/Wuliangye: 10 Classic Baijiu Recommendations Selected by Experts That You Must Try (Part 2)Kweichow Moutai/Wuliangye: 10 Classic Baijiu Recommendations Selected by Experts That You Must Try (Part 2)
Chinese Baijiu, as one of the oldest distilled spirits in Chinese history, holds a status similar to that of red wine in France and whiskey in Scotland. This clear and transparent drink, rich in complex flavors, is honored as the "national liquor" and occupies an important position on Chinese dining tables while gradually making its way onto the international stage, captivating the world. If you are curious about Chinese Baijiu or wish to learn more about the wonders of this drink, this article will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the types, culture, and recommended mainland Baijiu brands, and answer some questions about Baijiu.
The History and Origin of Baijiu
The history of Chinese Baijiu can be traced back over four thousand years, with the earliest brewing techniques appearing during the Shang dynasty. During the Yuan dynasty, distillation technology was introduced to China from Arabia, further promoting the development of Baijiu. By the Ming and Qing dynasties, Baijiu gradually became an important beverage among all social classes and formed unique brewing techniques.
Traditional Elements and Types of Chinese Baijiu
Chinese Baijiu is a type of liquor made from grains, distilled and brewed, with an alcohol content typically ranging from 40% to 60%, characterized by rich and complex aromas and flavors. Its English name "Chinese Baijiu" (pronounced: bye-jeo), literally translates to "white liquor"; however, the allure of this liquor is far beyond what a few words can encompass, serving as a cultural and historical calling card.
Selection of Raw Materials
Grains: Baijiu primarily uses sorghum as the main ingredient but can also utilize other grains such as wheat, rice, and corn. These grains not only provide the sugars necessary for fermentation but also impart unique flavors and aromas to Baijiu.
Qu: Qu is a key ingredient in the fermentation process, typically made from grains and legumes. The microorganisms in qu can promote saccharification and fermentation, which is a typical characteristic of Chinese Baijiu brewing.
Traditional Fermentation Vessels
Ceramic and Mud Pits: Traditionally, the fermentation of Baijiu often occurs in containers made from natural materials like clay pots and mud pits. These containers help promote the growth of microorganisms and can influence the flavor of the liquor. For example, the mud in the pits can provide a good microbial environment, thereby enhancing the color, aroma, and taste of strong aromatic Baijiu.
Types of Baijiu
Its flavors are extremely rich and can be categorized into the following main types based on aroma:
Sauce Aroma Type: Represented by Guizhou Moutai, known for its rich, layered aroma akin to aged wine cellars and a mellow taste, making it the most popular choice among collectors and for high-end occasions.
Strong Aroma Type: Exemplified by Luzhou Laojiao and Sichuan Wuliangye, known for their fresh aroma and smooth taste.
Light Aroma Type: Famous for Fenjiu, which emits a delicate and fresh malt aroma, offering a soft and smooth entry, suitable for beginners experiencing Baijiu for the first time.
Rice Aroma Type: Represented by Guilin Sanhua Jiu, characterized by a strong rice fragrance, with a light body ideal for pairing with fine Chinese cuisine.
The history of Chinese Baijiu can be traced back over four thousand years, with the earliest brewing techniques appearing during the Shang Dynasty. During the Yuan Dynasty, distillation techniques were introduced to China from Arabia, further promoting the development of Baijiu. By the Ming and Qing Dynasties, Baijiu gradually became an important beverage among all social classes and formed a unique brewing process.
The Brewing Process of Chinese Baijiu
Raw Material Processing
Selection of Material: Mainly using sorghum, corn, wheat, rice, and other grains, requiring fresh materials without mold or impurities.
Crushing: Crush the selected grains into small particles suitable for fermentation to improve alcohol yield.
Mold Making
Making Wine Mold: Mix cooked grains with specific strains of fungi to cultivate wine mold. The wine mold contains enzymes that can convert starch into sugar, which is a key step in brewing baijiu.
Fermentation
Mixing and Fermentation: Mix the crushed grains with the wine mold, add an appropriate amount of water, and carry out solid-state fermentation. This process usually takes place in earthenware jars or pots, with a fermentation time generally of 21 days, during which temperature and humidity must be controlled to ensure successful fermentation.
Distillation
Distillation Process: After fermentation is complete, the fermented mash is distilled. This process extracts alcohol from the fermented liquid and is usually divided into three parts: the head, the original liquor, and the tail for further processing.
Aging
Aging: Newly brewed baijiu needs to be stored in clay jars or other containers for a period to enhance its flavor. The aging time can range from several months to several years, which helps to improve the taste and aroma of the liquor.
Blending
Mixing: Different batches and years of baijiu are blended to achieve an ideal flavor balance. This step requires experienced brewers to ensure consistency and quality of the final product.
The entire brewing process not only requires technical excellence but also a respect and understanding of traditional craftsmanship. Every step can affect the flavor and quality of the final product, making Chinese baijiu a unique beverage rich in cultural connotation.
Baijiu — More than Just a Good Drink
Immerse yourself in the infinite charm of Chinese baijiu culture; it is not just a story of a drink, but a journey through history, culture, and taste. If this article has sparked your interest in mainland baijiu brands, we suggest you try one or two renowned brands and discover the intricacies behind each drop of baijiu with the mindset of an explorer.
Set off now, and let Chinese baijiu be your new tasting experience!