This Chinese spirit is more popular than whisky
Whenever there is even the slightest thing to celebrate in China, it is celebrated with baijiu. Bai-jyoh? This strong Chinese spirit is more popular than whisky and is sold by the crate.
It smells like petrol and contains 60% alcohol, but baijiu is the best-selling distilled drink in the world. It is made from grain and is part of Chinese culture. It is brought out at every celebration, event or dinner. Baijiu is also well on its way to conquering the Western market.
Cocktail
Baijiu has something in common with vodka and gin, so this drink could well become wildly popular here too. Do you want to drink it completely in the Chinese style? Drink baijiu at room temperature as a shot, combined with Chinese food and company. Or organise a cocktail night with your friends; baijiu is also great to use in cocktails. Red Star baijiu is light and delicious to mix with hibiscus liqueur, lime juice and syrup. That is how they drink it in Los Angeles.
Asian supermarket
Maotai is the best-selling brand and also the most expensive. A bottle costs no less than €218, and its contents taste slightly like soy sauce. Fruity, lighter flavours are also available for €15. In the Netherlands, baijiu is available at Asian supermarkets or online. So, if you fancy something other than that eternal gin and tonic, give baijiu a try. 干杯!
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