Baijiu is a robust, complex, and potent Chinese spirit. It is by far one of the most consumed liquors in the world. Nevertheless, it requires an acquired taste to genuinely appreciate Baijiu. Things definitely change when you mix Baijiu in cocktails.
Baijiu is a part of China’s history spanning over thousands of years. It was primarily imbibed by old men and usually enjoyed with food. Moreover, Baijiu was busted out mostly for special occasions. Even now they don’t drink Baijiu in nightclubs and definitely not mixed with other ingredients for making Baijiu cocktails.
Baijiu as such is made up of many types of flavours. But still, it works well in a variety of combinations. Here are the top 7 Baijiu Cocktail blends for you to try out.
Top Seven Baijiu Cocktails
- Hong Kong Margarita: Explore Baijiu. It is one of the most consumed spirits in the world. Explore combinations through a variation of one of the world’s favourite Baijiu Cocktails. The Hong Kong Margarita is one such possibility. It is a perfect introductory Baijiu Cocktail drink to this popular spirit with Agave Syrup, Baijiuthis, Cucumber, Jalapeño, Lime Juice, and Mint.
- ‘I Think She Got It’: This Baijiu Cocktail was created by Shawn Chen from RedFarm in NYC. It utilises Blackberries, Fresh Ginger, and Ginger Liqueur to show what Baijiu can really do. Basil Leaves and Sugar Syrup added to Lime Juice serve for a long drink that is packed with a pronounced flavour.
- Hong Kong Mule: The Hong Kong Mule is perfect for a summer day. It substantiates a consummate way to utilise the strong aromatic and fruity flavours of Baijiu, the Chinese spirit. The Hong Kong Mule is a refreshing and light Baijiu Cocktail when combined with Ginger Beer and Lime Juice.
- Don’t Skip A Beet: Try the Don’t Skip A Beet if you are looking for a more vegetarian Baijiu Cocktail. It is definitely worth making. This Baijiu Cocktail is a well-rounded drink with a more savoury slant along with Beet Juice, Gin, Grenadine, and Lemon Juice.
- Hong Kong Accord: Get behind the Hong Kong Accord with Brazilian Cachaca, French St Germain, mixed well with Chinese Baijiu. Add this combination to Honey Syrup, a little Lime Juice, and Orange Bitters. This Baijiu Cocktail is a light and fruity drink that will make you want to travel more often.
- Bittersweet Boomerang: Baijiu-bartender Paul Mathew unveiled the Bittersweet Boomerang at the 2017 ‘Tales of the Cocktails’ event. It was a special gift to the bartenders in attendance there. The Bittersweet Boomerang Baijiu Cocktail combines Cynar, Creme De Cacao, and Yellow Chartreuse along with Baijiu to titillate your palate.
- Sichuan Sour: The Sichuan Sour Baijiu Cocktail is an elegant riff on the Parasol cocktail. Originally created at Glady’s, Brooklyn by Shannon Mustipher, the Sichuan Sour leans into Baijiu’s natural fruity flavour. This Baijiu Cocktail effectively combines Passionfruit Liqueur, Lime & Pineapple Juice with Baijiu to create the perfect summer cocktail swill.
People adjust and palettes change at the end of the day. Especially with drinks, people are willing to step outside their comfort zone to expand their appreciation and knowledge. Most often it is just a case of getting used to something that is a little different than what we are used to savouring.
Baijiu is perfect for mixing and acts as an excellent base for classic or innovative cocktails. It is definitely so for people who are adventurous and are down for something new. Even if it may not immediately replace Gin or Whiskey in your home bar, Baijiu has a growing number of fans the world over.
How To Use Baijiu
Find the best fruits, herbs and other spirits and liqueurs that can mix well and tame the Baijiu. This is the trick to bring out its rich, and earthy complexity. Find flavours that are equally powerful. Baijiu Cocktails go best with Absinthe, Campari, Citrus, and Mescal. It may not work so well with sweet vermouth.
Playing around with spices, Amari, Ginger, Herbal Liqueurs, Nutty Liqueurs, and Sherry is the perfect way to grow a liking while introducing yourself to Baijiu. While fruits like blackberries, grapefruit, passionfruit, and pineapple greatly complement Baijiu, fresh red berries tend to get lost.
More pronounced fruits will emphatically stand beside Baijiu. Think of Baijiu through the lens of Chinese culture. Put emphasis on the harmonious balance between the yin and yang. Find flavours that will harmoniously complement Baijiu and your taste buds as well!
