Steeped in Tradition

The world's most popular spirit is also one of the most underrated - outside of its native country that is China. Prestige lifts the lid on baijiu and discovers the complexities of the Chinese liquor.

- JOSEPH LOW

Baijiu is the world's best-selling liquor, but it's not quite a global phenomenon just yet. Crafted mainly from sorghum and an array of grains, China's national drink is largely consumed domestically and has been since the Ming Dynasty. In the last few years, however, thanks to the international ambitions of a few large baijiu producers, the clear, pungent spirit is fascinating drinkers outside of its home base.

Moutai Bulao by the state-owned Kweichow Moutai Company is a case in point. Specially designed for overseas markets, the blend comes in a smaller volume of 125 ml to encourage sampling. Moutai Bulao is also the first of its kind to incorporate unusual ingredients, such as longan, wolfberry, hawthorn and Angelica dahurica. These contribute to the berry notes on the nose, while also exuding hints of roasted espresso. Unlike most baijius that have a fiery palate, it has a smooth mouthfeel with notes of honeyed figs and jasmine.