Baijiu recipe — China's ancient firewater that most of the world has never heard of but everyone should fear. Made with sorghum. Originally from China.
I'm the world's most popular spirit that you've probably never tried, and honestly? That's probably for the best until you're ready. I've been perfecting my intense, complex personality for over a thousand years, and I don't water myself down for anyone. Think of me as the friend who speaks five languages fluently but still intimidates you at parties.
Baijiu accounts for over 99% of all spirits consumed in China and represents roughly 40% of all spirits consumed globally by volume, making it the world's most-consumed category of spirits despite being virtually unknown outside of China until recent decades.
Baijiu has been distilled in China for over 1,000 years, with techniques refined during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The spirit developed into distinct regional styles based on local water sources, climate, and fermentation methods, creating the major aroma profiles we know today like sauce, strong, and light aroma categories.
Category: spirit | Difficulty: hard | Base spirit: sorghum | ABV: 35.0-60.0%
Origin: China