白酒
China's national spirit and the most consumed liquor in the world by volume, baijiu is a potent clear spirit distilled from sorghum, wheat, rice, or other grains. With an alcohol content typically between 40-60%, it has an intensely aromatic and complex flavor profile. Baijiu is essential at Chinese banquets and business dinners, where toasting rituals play an important social role. Famous brands include Moutai and Wuliangye.
Chinese spirits trace their lineage back at least 5,000 years, making China one of the earliest distilling civilisations. Baijiu, the dominant spirit, evolved from grain fermentation techniques perfected during the Yuan Dynasty. Today it is the world's most consumed spirit by volume, playing a central role in banquets, business dinners, and celebrations across the country.
Baijiu production is an elaborate process involving solid-state fermentation in earthen pits, steam distillation, and years of aging in clay jars. The fermentation agent, known as qu, is a complex culture of yeast and mould that determines the spirit's aroma profile. Top-shelf baijiu from distilleries like Moutai is aged for five years or more before bottling.
North ChinaThe capital of the People's Republic of China and one of the most populous cities in the world. Beijing is a treasure trove of ancient history, home to the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and the Temple of Heaven. As the political and cultural heart of China, it seamlessly blends imperial grandeur with modern innovation.
Southwest ChinaThe laid-back capital of Sichuan Province is famous worldwide for its giant panda breeding centers and fiery Sichuan cuisine. Chengdu is known as the land of abundance, offering a slower pace of life with its teahouse culture, mahjong traditions, and proximity to stunning natural landscapes including Jiuzhaigou Valley.
Southwest ChinaBuilt dramatically across steep hills at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers, Chongqing is one of China's most visually striking cities. Famous for its mouth-numbing hot pot, neon-lit night skyline, and serving as the starting point for Yangtze River cruises through the Three Gorges, this mountainous megacity offers an unforgettable urban experience unlike anywhere else in China.
While baijiu is consumed for celebration rather than health, Chinese tradition holds that a small amount of grain spirit can stimulate circulation and warm the body in cold weather. Medicinal wines infused with herbs, goji berries, or ginseng have been part of TCM for centuries and remain popular as health tonics. Moderation is emphasised in all Chinese drinking customs.