If Moutai is the most famous sauce-aroma baijiu, Wuliangye is the most famous strong-aroma baijiu. It comes from Yibin in Sichuan province, where the Min and Jinsha rivers meet to form the Yangtze, and it is a classic choice for banquets, business dinners and gifts.
The name means “five grains”
Wuliangye (五粮液) translates as “five-grain liquid.” It is made from a blend of five grains: sorghum, rice, glutinous rice, wheat and corn. This mix gives Wuliangye its rounded, layered character, different from baijiu made mainly from sorghum. For background, see the history of baijiu.
Strong-aroma style
Wuliangye is the leading example of strong-aroma (nong xiang) baijiu, fermented in mud pits that are used again and again over many years. Expect a fragrant, fruity nose often compared to pineapple, pear and ripe fruit, a sweet and full palate, and a clean, long finish.
Which Wuliangye to choose
- Wuliangye 7th Generation (750 ml): the flagship bottle in its latest packaging, the classic banquet and gift choice.
- Wuliangye 1618 (375 ml): a smaller premium bottle, easy to gift or share.
- Treasure Edition in crystal box: a striking presentation for special occasions.
How to serve
Serve at room temperature in small baijiu cups and sip slowly. Wuliangye pairs well with Sichuan and Cantonese dishes, roast meats and spicy hot pot. At 52% alcohol, a little goes a long way.
Buy Wuliangye in Millbrae
T&Y Wine & Spirits at 260 Broadway, Millbrae carries several Wuliangye bottlings alongside Moutai, Guojiao 1573 and other famous baijiu. Order online for pickup or Bay Area delivery.
Frequently asked questions
What are the five grains in Wuliangye?
Sorghum, rice, glutinous rice, wheat and corn.
What is the difference between Wuliangye and Moutai?
Wuliangye is a strong-aroma baijiu from Yibin, Sichuan, made from five grains and known for a fruity, sweet style. Moutai is a sauce-aroma baijiu from Guizhou with a savory, umami character.
Where can I buy Wuliangye near San Francisco?
T&Y Wine & Spirits at 260 Broadway in Millbrae, with pickup and Bay Area delivery.
Please enjoy responsibly. You must be 21 or older to purchase alcohol.