Top Baijiu Cocktails to Try: Elevate Your Cocktail Game with China's Bold Spirit

Baijiu, China’s most famous spirit, is making its mark on the international cocktail scene. Whether you’re a seasoned drink enthusiast or someone looking to expand your palate, baijiu cocktails offer an exciting way to experience this bold and complex liquor. From fruity and floral to earthy and savory, baijiu's diverse flavor profile makes it an ideal base for creative and refreshing cocktails.

In this blog, we'll introduce you to some of the best baijiu cocktail recipes that are perfect for any occasion, along with tips on how to incorporate this ancient spirit into your home bar. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply want to try something new, these baijiu cocktail ideas will take your cocktail game to the next level.

1. What is Baijiu?

Before we dive into the cocktail recipes, let’s explore what baijiu is. Baijiu (pronounced "bye-jee-oh"), which translates to "white liquor," is a potent distilled spirit from China made from sorghum, rice, or other grains. It comes in various styles, ranging from light and floral to strong and savory, depending on its aroma category.

Baijiu is known for its high alcohol content (ranging from 35% to 60%) and distinct flavors, which can be challenging for new drinkers but also rewarding for those seeking an adventurous tasting experience.

2. Top Baijiu Cocktails to Try

1. Baijiu Sour

If you’re new to baijiu, the Baijiu Sour is an excellent introduction to the spirit. This refreshing cocktail balances baijiu’s strong flavor with bright citrus and a touch of sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz light aroma baijiu (Fenjiu works well)
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 0.75 oz simple syrup
• Egg white (optional for froth)
• Ice

Method: In a shaker, combine the baijiu, lemon juice, and simple syrup. If using egg white, dry shake (without ice) first to froth, then add ice and shake again. Strain into a glass and garnish with a lemon twist. The tart citrus pairs beautifully with baijiu's boldness.

2. Baijiu Old Fashioned

For those who enjoy whiskey-based cocktails, the Baijiu Old Fashioned offers a creative spin on the classic recipe. It swaps out whiskey for a strong aroma baijiu, creating a drink with bold character and depth.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz strong aroma baijiu (try Luzhou Laojiao)
• 0.25 oz simple syrup
• 2 dashes of bitters
• Orange peel for garnish

Method: Stir the baijiu, simple syrup, and bitters in a mixing glass with ice until well-chilled. Strain into a glass over a large ice cube and garnish with an orange peel. This cocktail offers a smooth yet intense sip that’s perfect for spirit-forward drink lovers.

3. Baijiu Mule

The Baijiu Mule is a fun and spicy cocktail that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With ginger beer and fresh lime juice, this drink brings a refreshing, zesty kick to your cocktail lineup.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz strong aroma baijiu
• 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
• Ginger beer
• Ice

Method: In a glass, add ice, baijiu, and lime juice. Top with ginger beer and stir gently. Garnish with a lime wedge or mint sprig for an extra refreshing touch. This cocktail is an excellent option for those who prefer light and easy-to-drink cocktails with a spicy twist.

4. Baijiu Negroni

A twist on the classic Negroni, the Baijiu Negroni replaces gin with sauce aroma baijiu, offering a more complex and layered flavor profile.

Ingredients:

• 1 oz sauce aroma baijiu (like Moutai)
• 1 oz Campari
• 1 oz sweet vermouth
• Ice

Method: Stir all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice until well-chilled. Strain into a glass with a large ice cube and garnish with an orange peel. This cocktail is rich, bittersweet, and perfect for fans of bold, aromatic drinks.

5. Plum Baijiu Fizz

Baijiu pairs beautifully with fruit, and this cocktail uses plum flavors to highlight the spirit’s floral and sweet notes. It's a light and refreshing drink ideal for warm weather or brunch gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz light aroma baijiu
• 1 oz umeshu (Japanese plum wine)
• 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
• Soda water
• Ice

Method: Shake the baijiu, umeshu, and lime juice with ice, then strain into a glass with ice. Top with soda water and garnish with a lime wheel or fresh plum slices. The sweet plum flavors balance the baijiu, making it an easy drink for baijiu newcomers.

3. Why Baijiu Cocktails are Worth Trying

Baijiu’s diverse flavor profiles make it a versatile and exciting ingredient in cocktails. Its ability to pair with sweet, sour, and savory flavors allows for endless possibilities in cocktail creation. Whether you're mixing a refreshing highball or crafting a complex, spirit-forward drink, baijiu offers something for every palate.

While baijiu may seem intimidating at first, especially due to its strong and often unfamiliar flavors, experimenting with it in cocktails can open the door to a new world of mixology. Plus, it adds a unique, authentic touch to your home bar or cocktail menu, impressing your guests with something they may have never tried before.

4. Final Thoughts: Bring Baijiu to Your Home Bar with OMGCheers

Ready to start experimenting with baijiu cocktails? At OMGCheers, we offer a curated selection of premium baijiu varieties, including strong aroma, sauce aroma, and light aroma styles. Browse our collection and elevate your next cocktail night with this bold and versatile spirit. Whether you're looking to craft classic cocktails with a twist or try something entirely new, baijiu is a perfect choice for adventurous drinkers.