How to Enjoy Baijiu: Cocktail Tips & Recipes

The global baijiu market is expanding rapidly, with a projected ​​4.8% CAGR (2023-2032)​​, growing from ​​336.9Mto513.8M​​.

• ​​Premium baijiu (e.g., Moutai)​​ is now a luxury item, appealing to high-end spirits collectors. Moutai, for instance, is considered a ​​”Veblen Good”​​—a status symbol where demand increases with price.
• ​​Cultural Drinking Differences​​:
  • 95% of Westerners drink baijiu as ​​shots​​, amplifying its “fiery” reputation.
  • Chinese drinkers savor it slowly in small cups, appreciating its complexity.
• ​​Misunderstood Spirit​​: Many non-Chinese consumers judge baijiu based on cheap variants, labeling it as “harsh” or “unapproachable.”

​​The Truth​​: Baijiu isn’t just strong—it’s versatile. When mixed correctly, its rich flavors (nutty, savory, caramel, herbal) shine.

​​How to Drink Baijiu Right: Cocktail Recipes​​

Baijiu, especially ​​Jiangxiang-style​​ (e.g., Moutai), offers a unique depth to cocktails. Here are 3 easy recipes:

​​1. Baijiu Moscow Mule​​

A refreshing twist on the classic, with ginger spice balancing baijiu’s intensity.

• ​​Ingredients​​:
  • 45ml baijiu (Jiangxiang-style, e.g., Guotai/Moutai)
  • 120ml ginger beer (e.g., Fever-Tree)
  • 15ml fresh lime juice
  • Ice + lime wedge/mint garnish
• ​​Method​​:
  1. Fill a copper mug with ice.
  2. Add baijiu and lime juice, stir lightly.
  3. Top with ginger beer. Garnish.

​​Tip​​: Reduce baijiu to 30ml if 53% ABV feels too strong.

​​2. Baijiu Margarita​​

Tequila’s citrusy cousin, with baijiu’s umami backbone.

• ​​Ingredients​​:
  • 45ml baijiu (e.g., Luzhou Laojiao)
  • 20ml triple sec
  • 25ml lime juice
  • 5ml sugar syrup (optional)
  • Salt rim + lime wheel
• ​​Method​​:
  1. Rim glass with salt.
  2. Shake all ingredients with ice. Strain.

​​Tip​​: Use ​​Nongxiang-style​​ baijiu for a smoother taste.

​​3. Baijiu Lychee Martini​​

A floral, fruity gateway for baijiu newbies.

• ​​Ingredients​​:
  • 30ml baijiu (low-ABV like Moutai Youmi)
  • 20ml lychee liqueur
  • 30ml lychee juice
  • 10ml lemon juice
  • Lychee/lemon twist garnish
• ​​Method​​:
  1. Shake with ice. Strain into a chilled glass.

​​Tip​​: No liqueur? Use 40ml lychee juice + 10ml vodka.

​​Key Takeaways​​

• ​​For Beginners​​: Start with ​​Baijiu Lychee Martini​​—its sweetness masks alcohol burn.
• ​​For Pros​​: Try ​​Jiangxiang baijiu​​ in spirit-forward drinks (e.g., Old Fashioned).
• ​​Rule​​: Always use ​​quality baijiu​​; cheap versions ruin the experience.
• buy vintage baijiu.

​​Ready to rethink baijiu?​​ Explore these recipes and share your creations! 🥢🥃