Drunk in China: Baijiu and the World's Oldest Drinking Culture

One of the world's leading producers and consumers of liquor, baijiu, is now being served in cocktail bars beyond China's borders. Drunk in China explores the many ways in which alcohol has shaped Chinese society and its rituals, and how recent economic and political developments have pushed Chinese alcohol beyond the nation's borders for the first time.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 314 pages
Publication date: 11 July 2022
Publisher: University of Nebraska Press

China, a global powerhouse in liquor production and consumption, has deeply ingrained alcohol in its culture, permeating various aspects of society, including religion, literature, business, and warfare. However, to the outside world, the enigmatic spirit known as baijiu, China's most famous liquor, remains shrouded in mystery. This is about to change, as baijiu is now finding its way into cocktail bars beyond China's borders.
In his captivating book, "Drunk in China," Derek Sandhaus embarks on a remarkable journey of discovery into the world's oldest drinking culture. Spanning across the country and around the globe, he meets with distillers, brewers, snake-oil salesmen, archaeologists, and ordinary drinkers to unravel the intricate tapestry of alcohol's influence on Chinese society and rituals. Through his immersive experiences, Sandhaus explores the diverse facets of Chinese alcohol culture, from the production floors of renowned distilleries to the lively karaoke parlors, hotpot joints, and speakeasies. He delves into the rich history of baijiu, tracing its origins back over nine thousand years and examining how recent economic and political developments have propelled it beyond China's borders for the first time.
As Chinese society continues to embrace internationalization, its drinking culture faces the challenge of adapting to the changing times. Can the West, too, embrace and engage with China's vibrant drinking culture? "Drunk in China" offers a thought-provoking exploration of this question, providing readers with a captivating glimpse into the complex and fascinating world of Chinese alcohol. Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or a curious explorer, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the intricate relationship between alcohol, culture, and society in China.

Dimension: 225 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781640125087