Chinese Baijiu: The "Calling Card" of Chinese Drinking Culture
He Zun (Ritual Wine Vessel) by China Bronze Ware Museum World Federation of Chinese Catering Industry
How did baijiu become the "calling card" of Chinese drinking culture?
In China's long history, there are many stories related to alcoholic drinks, such as the ancient poets' exclamations of "Enjoy wine and song while you can, for life is short." and "When will the moon be clear and bright?With a cup of wine in my hand, I ask the clear sky." This also shows the importance of alcohol in Chinese culture.
Bronze Jue of Qin Fugui in the Shang Dynasty by China Bronze Ware Museum World Federation of Chinese Catering Industry
Did you know that in ancient times, baijiu (white liquor) and huangjiu (yellow wine) were served to people of different social classes?
Yellow Rice Wine by Shanxi Tourism and Culinary Vocational College World Federation of Chinese Catering Industry
In fact, before the emergence of baijiu, huangjiu had already firmly occupied the mainstream position, and its price was so high that only high-ranking officials and nobles could afford it. This was related to the popularity of sipping and savoring alcoholic beverages among the upper classes at that time. Because baijiu was too strong, it did not meet the standards of the mainstream drinking culture.
Rice by World Federation Of Chinese Catering Industry World Federation of Chinese Catering Industry
The rise of baijiu was due to a shortage of grain, which led to a reduction in the production of huangjiu brewed with barley and millet in order to save grain. This created an opportunity for the development of baijiu, which is made from sorghum, a grain that cannot be eaten directly. Ever since then, yields and production processes have rapidly improved.
Traditinal Chinese Dinner Seating by World Federation Of Chinese Catering Industry World Federation of Chinese Catering Industry
Today, baijiu has become the most popular liquor in China, and an indispensable addition to the dining table.
Red Lantern by World Federation Of Chinese Catering Industry World Federation of Chinese Catering Industry
How much do you know about Chinese drinking culture?
There is a Chinese saying that translates as "you can’t have a feast without alcohol". Drinking culture accompanies Chinese people throughout their entire lives, from the celebrations that are held when a baby turns one month old and one year old, to wedding banquets, workplace socializing, and get-togethers with friends, to the Spring Festival, Qingming Festival, and Double Ninth Festival.
Chinese Table Manner Culture by World Federation Of Chinese Catering Industry World Federation of Chinese Catering Industry
China is a country of etiquette, and the Book of Han
states that "alcohol is paramount among all etiquette". Therefore, drinking culture is very important in China. As the saying goes, "Get drunk, and you can be polite, but overdo it, and you will hurt your virtue." Indeed, Chinese drinking culture strongly emphasizes politeness, moderation, and virtue.
Yellow Croaker with Pickled Vegetables World Federation of Chinese Catering Industry
"Politeness" refers to the etiquette of drinking. Respect your elders, and toast from the leader or elder in descending order of social status. When clinking glasses, your glass should be lower than the other person’s, to show humility. When toasting, you should pay attention to how much the other person can drink, to strengthen social relationships and avoid being disrespectful.
Cheers! by World Federation Of Chinese Catering Industry World Federation of Chinese Catering Industry
"Moderation" means drinking in moderation. In Chinese drinking culture, people usually drink to share joy with friends and family or to strengthen cooperation, so it is necessary to ensure that you gauge the strength of the drink and not drink to excess.
Wine Jar by World Federation Of Chinese Catering Industry World Federation of Chinese Catering Industry
"Virtue" refers to good manners. A person with good manners is polite and respectful, and still maintains the proper demeanor while drinking.
If you want to try Chinese baijiu, the following tips may help lessen any potential hangover:
Avoid drinking on an empty stomach. Drink some milk beforehand. This can promote the breakdown of alcohol and protect the stomach and intestines.
Do not drink with carbonated drinks. This will accelerate the absorption of alcohol.
Drink hot soup afterward. This can help lessen a potential hangover.
Eat dessert, fruit, or easily digestible food afterward.
Drinking strong tea could make a headache worse.
Pace yourself. Slow down and give the body time to break down the alcohol.
