Yanghe is one of the most long-standing and premium producers of Baijiu, the national liquor of China. You may not know it but Baijiu, is the world’s most consumed alcohol thanks to the China’s 1.4 billion population. The liquor also accounts for almost a third of global spirit sales. It has a history of dating back 1500 years, and is an essential part of both Chinese culinary and social culture.

BAIJIU ETIQUETTE

• Baijiu is usually served in shot sized glasses as a neat drink at room temperature

• Baijiu is usually drunk at meal times, with food or nibbles, in the company of family and/or friends

• When drinking with others, you should always toast before drinking. If it’s just casual drinking with friends, even a clink with each other will do

• Elders and superiors should always be toasted first. Make sure your glass is held in a lower position to an elder to show respect and humility

• Sipping is a socially acceptable although traditionally, one finishes their drink for every toast. The Chinese say “gan-bei!” which means “cheers!”, usually suggests you should drink the entire shot!

BAIJIU TIPS

• Fill your neighbours glasses: drinking Baijiu is a communal experience, take care of your comrades!

• Fill to the brim when pouring: or else you may seem inhospitable or stingy in accordance with Chinese drinking traditions.

• Always toast: before drinking Baijiu as an expression of honour and goodwill. When someone honour you with a toast, make sure to return the favour sometime after!