4 Highly-Rated Baijiu Brands Recommended by Wine Enthusiasts – Palatable for Self-Drinking, Impressive for Guests, and Surprisingly Affordable Prices
A group of wine enthusiasts have identified four types of Baijiu (Chinese white spirit) that are palatable for self-drinking, respectable for entertaining, and surprisingly affordable. Let's see which ones you've tried!
Baijiu has a history of over a thousand years in China, passed down through generations. It has diversified into many different varieties, typically categorized by aroma profiles, such as Qingxiang (clear aroma), Jiangxiang (fermented aroma), and Kongxiang (strong aroma).
For those who are new to drinking, Baijiu can be quite an experience – often characterized by its spiciness, pungency, and potentially a bitter taste. However, for those who truly understand Baijiu, it's about appreciating its color, scent, and taste. Different aroma types offer vastly different flavors. For example, Qingxiang Baijiu is smooth and refreshing, while Kongxiang Baijiu is rich and lingering. Jiangxiang Baijiu is distinctive for its prominent fermented aroma, leaving a long-lasting aftertaste.
I often enjoy a small glass of Baijiu myself and frequently discuss the taste and selection experience with fellow wine enthusiasts. Today, I'm sharing four types of Baijiu that are praised by wine lovers for being affordable and delicious – perfect for self-drinking and creating a good impression when entertaining. Let's see which ones you've tried!
1. Fenjiu Series
Fenjiu, as a typical representative of Qingxiang Baijiu, is known for its smooth, sweet finish, which is why many people love it. Compared to other aroma types, Fenjiu is irresistibly drinkable. Fenjiu has become increasingly diverse with many varieties, but when purchasing Fenjiu, it's important to distinguish between Fenjiu Group and Fenjiu Share. Fenjiu Group Baijiu is quite diverse, while Fenjiu Share is the core brand under Fenjiu Group, focusing on aged Baijiu and Bamboo Leaf Green, with products like 42-degree and 53-degree glass bottle Fenjiu and Ten, Twenty, Thirty Year, and National Banquet Fenjiu. Buying Fenjiu, it is best to purchase Fenjiu Share products.Fenjiu Share offers more accessible and approachable bottles of Fenjiu, with a smooth taste that doesn't hit too strongly, and prices around 40-50 RMB per bottle, making it affordable for most people.
2. Moutai Series
Moutai, often referred to as 'The King of Baijiu,' is a highly regarded liquor, particularly recognized for its use in state banquets. It's a symbol of prestige and is often served during gatherings. The various Moutai Baijiu available on the market are diverse, so it's important to select wisely.Moutai Share productsMoutai Share produces Moutai Baijiu, with Moutai Prince and Moutai Welcome Wine priced more affordably, offering a rich, lingering Jiangxiang (fermented aroma) that makes them suitable for entertaining.3. Erjiatou (Two-Pot Baijiu)
Erjiatou, originating from Beijing, is one of the most famous Baijiu types, especially among those from the north. It's a classic Qingxiang series. There are several varieties of Erjiatou, with Red Star Erjiatou and Niulan Shan Erjiatou being particularly renowned. I believe that among these two, Red Star Erjiatou's craftsmanship is more traditional, offering a richer, more intense Qingxiang flavor, while Niulan Shan Erjiatou is more mellow. Therefore, I personally prefer Red Star Erjiatou.
4. Lao Bailian (Old White Dry Baijiu)
When it comes to Lao Bailian, it might be unfamiliar to many in southern China, but it's a familiar favorite for those in Hebei and northern regions. Lao Bailian is a typical representative of the Qingxiang Baijiu style, and compared to Qingxiang Baijiu, Lao Bailian has a stronger, more pronounced aroma and flavor. Lao Bailian Baijiu utilizes stone jars as fermentation containers, resulting in a purer, naturally less alcoholic flavor. (Eighteen Wine Shops) offers a more upscale version of Lao Bailian, while the glass bottle version is more basic.
And finally, sizes of Blue and White Porcelain are also popular, with beautiful packaging and a pleasant, non-intense taste, making them a favorite among wine lovers.About affordable and delicious Baijiu, what recommendations do you have?I'm Xiao Su Rou (Little Sweet Meat), a 90s foodie who loves to cook and share. If you enjoy my articles, please remember to collect, like, and share them! If you have any comments or suggestions, please leave a comment below. Thank you for taking the time to read this, and we'll see you tomorrow.
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