
INTRODUCTION TO BAIJIU
Baijiu 白酒 (white liquor), is a Chinese colourless spirit, usually between 35% to 60% ABV. Baijiu is typically distilled from fermented sorghum, but some styles may use other grains such as rice, wheat. barley and millet. Baijiu has a long and remarkable history, with archaeological artworks dating back to the Han Dynasty (202 BC-220 AD) depicting early distillation processes.
There are 4 major categories of baijiu:
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Qingxiang 清香 (light aroma) — A delicate and dry spirit with a light mouthfeel.
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Mixiang 米香 (rice aroma) — Clean and light with a mild aroma.
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Nongxiang 浓香 (strong aroma) — Sweet and mellow with a gentle lasting fragrance.
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Jiangxiang 酱香 (sauce aroma) — A bold, pungent spirit with a rich, layered umami flavour, not for beginners!