china liquor

current location:home > Blog >

How to determine the alcohol content of baijiu based on its aroma?

How to determine the alcohol content of baijiu based on its aroma?

time:2024-08-02 15:42:16 source:Internet author:unknown
guide:In China, baijiu is not just a beverage but an important part of culture and social interaction. For wine enthusiasts, tasting is an art, and understanding the alcohol content of the liquor is the fir

In China, baijiu is not just a beverage but an important part of culture and social interaction. For wine enthusiasts, tasting is an art, and understanding the alcohol content of the liquor is the first step in this art. Traditionally, people estimate the alcohol content of baijiu by observing the “wine flowers” — the bubbles that form in the glass. This method is not only simple but also rich in brewing wisdom. This article will delve into how to estimate the alcohol content of baijiu by observing wine flowers.


How to Determine the Alcohol Content of Baijiu Based on Wine Flowers?

1. The Mystery of Wine Flowers

The formation of wine flowers is closely related to alcohol content. Different alcohol concentrations change the surface tension of the liquid, affecting the size and dissipation speed of the wine flowers. By observing these characteristics, we can make a preliminary judgment about the alcohol content of baijiu.

2. Large Wine Flowers: A Sign of High Alcohol Content

High-alcohol baijiu, such as those with 65° to 80° alcohol content, has large wine flowers resembling soybeans, known as “Large Wine Flowers.” These wine flowers are uniform, clear, and dissipate very quickly. If you observe such wine flowers after shaking the bottle, it is likely that you are holding a high-alcohol baijiu.

3. Small Wine Flowers: A Signal of Medium Alcohol Content

Medium-alcohol baijiu, such as those with 58° to 63° alcohol content, has wine flowers the size of mung beans, known as “Small Wine Flowers.” Compared to large wine flowers, small wine flowers dissipate more slowly and last longer on the surface of the liquid. This type of wine flower typically indicates a medium alcohol content.

4. Cloud Wine Flowers: Characteristics of Low Alcohol Content

Low-alcohol baijiu, such as those with 40° to 50° alcohol content, has wine flowers referred to as “Cloud Wine Flowers.” These wine flowers are about the size of grains of rice, can overlap, and last longer, approximately 2 minutes. The presence of such wine flowers suggests that the baijiu has a lower alcohol content, suitable for slow tasting.

5. Special Wine Flowers: Recognition of Unique Types

In addition to the common types of wine flowers, there are special forms. For instance, “Two Flowers” or “Small Flowers” vary in size, with larger ones resembling rice grains and smaller ones like millet, and they last as long as cloud wine flowers. These typically appear in baijiu with 15° to 40° alcohol content. “Oil Flowers,” on the other hand, are wine flowers the size of about 1/4 of millet, covering the liquid surface, often formed from high-grade fatty acids, and the alcohol content of such baijiu is generally around 5%.

6. Limitations of Wine Flower Recognition

While wine flowers can give an indication of baijiu's alcohol content, this method is not absolutely accurate. Modern brewing techniques may use additives, such as fining agents and thickeners, which can affect the natural appearance of wine flowers. Additionally, different aromatic styles of baijiu may present wine flowers differently. Therefore, wine flower recognition should only be used as a reference and not as the sole standard for judging the quality of the liquor.

7. Comprehensive Judgment: Taste is Key

True connoisseurs, in addition to observing wine flowers, will also consider other factors such as the color, aroma, and taste of the baijiu. Tasting is not only a technique but an art that requires time and experience. Through continuous learning and practice, anyone can become an expert in tasting.

Wine flower recognition, a small detail in Chinese brewing culture, contains profound scientific principles and cultural value. It helps us understand the alcohol content of baijiu and deepens our appreciation of Chinese brewing art. While enjoying fine liquor, take the time to observe and understand these subtleties, and you will find that the process of tasting itself is a delightful experience.

Related Reading