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Finding authentic baijiu outside of China can feel like a treasure hunt. Despite being the world’s most‑consumed spirit, this Chinese white liquor is still relatively scarce in Western shops. Search data shows that Where to Buy Baijiu is one of the most frequent questions people ask online, and in this guide you’ll find detailed answers for shoppers in North America, Europe, and beyond. Each section offers practical buying advice backed by citations so you can navigate the evolving baijiu market with confidence.
Introduction: Why Knowing Where to Buy Baijiu Matters
Across China, baijiu is poured at business banquets, festivals and casual dinners. It accounts for roughly 10–11 billion litres of spirits consumed annually in China – more than one‑third of all spirits consumed worldwide – and yet it remains a mystery to many drinkers abroad. As interest grows, the supply chain is catching up. Reporters note that the once obscure liquor has “found its way into bars and supermarkets in the U.S.” and that British grocers are stocking more baijiu. This guide explores Where to Buy Baijiu today, whether you’re stocking a home bar, searching for a souvenir, or simply curious about China’s national drink.
How This Guide Is Structured
To maximize clarity, this article is organized into geographic sections and buying channels. The first section covers Where to Buy Baijiu online, followed by guides for purchasing in the United States, Canada, Europe and Asia. Each section concludes with storage and counterfeit‑avoidance tips. Throughout this guide, you will see the phrase Where to Buy Baijiu repeated often—this is intentional. High keyword density helps searchers find this page, and it reinforces the article’s focus.
1 – Buying Baijiu Online
In the past few years the internet has become the easiest answer to the question Where to Buy Baijiu. Online platforms allow shoppers to order bottles directly to their door (subject to local laws). According to the community website Baijiu Review, there are now multiple reputable online options including liquor‑delivery platform Drizly, Midwest‑focused Ace Spirits, and the official ShopMingRiver.com store. Drizly lists several baijiu brands in its database, but its ability to deliver depends on the inventory of partner retailers in your area. Ace Spirits ships a limited selection of baijius to states in the upper Midwest, while Shop Ming River focuses on delivering Ming River Sichuan Baijiu directly to U.S. addresses.
When considering Where to Buy Baijiu online, it’s essential to check regional alcohol laws. Some U.S. states prohibit liquor shipments outright or require the buyer to pick up in person from a local store. Always verify that the retailer is licensed to ship to your state and that you will be available to show identification upon delivery. For European customers, shipping tends to be more restricted; however, specialized retailers occasionally ship within the EU. Keep in mind that duties and taxes may apply when ordering spirits cross‑border. For online purchases, only buy from official flagship stores or verified retailers to avoid counterfeit bottles, a point emphasized by The China Journey, which warns buyers to “always buy from official flagship stores to avoid counterfeits”. This is especially important because premium baijius like Kweichow Moutai and Wuliangye are targets for fraud.
1.1 – Advantages of Buying Online
The convenience of shopping from home makes the internet an attractive answer to Where to Buy Baijiu. Online retailers often carry a wider range of brands than brick‑and‑mortar shops, including hard‑to‑find expressions such as sauce‑aroma baijius from Guizhou and aged baijius packaged in ceramic jugs. Pricing transparency is another advantage: you can easily compare bottle prices across multiple sites, read customer reviews, and check shipping fees before committing. Some specialty retailers also provide tasting notes, cocktail recipes and distillery histories, helping consumers learn about baijiu culture while deciding where to buy. However, the biggest drawback of buying online is shipping restrictions, always read the fine print before placing an order.
2 – Where to Buy Baijiu in the United States
The U.S. market offers a mix of online and physical options, and the phrase Where to Buy Baijiu applies to both. While baijiu remains niche, distribution is improving. The Asia Society notes that baijiu has “found its way into bars and supermarkets in the U.S.”. Here’s a breakdown of how to find baijiu stateside.
2.1 – Specialty Liquor Stores and Boutique Retailers
Boutique liquor stores in major metropolitan areas are a reliable answer to Where to Buy Baijiu. For example, Don’s Liquors & Wine in San Jose, California, offers a dedicated baijiu section with brands such as Luzhou Laojiao, Wu Liang Ye and Kweichow Moutai. Their online store lists 375 ml and 750 ml bottles, with prices ranging from around $40 for entry‑level Luzhou Laojiao to over $2,400 for a 15‑year Kweichow Moutai. Similar specialty retailers, often run by enthusiasts who import Asian spirits, exist in cities with large Chinese or East Asian communities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, Seattle and Houston. When asking Where to Buy Baijiu locally, search for liquor stores in Chinatown districts or near Asian supermarkets.
2.2 – Mainstream Grocery Chains and Asian Supermarkets
Another answer to Where to Buy Baijiu is the Asian grocery aisle. The China Journey advises readers to “look in liquor aisles for major brands like Luzhou Laojiao or Fenjiu” in Chinese supermarkets. Chains such as H Mart, 99 Ranch Market, Dai Hoang, and T&T (in Canada) often stock a few baijiu labels alongside sake and soju. Even mainstream grocers with international sections, like certain locations of Total Wine & More and BevMo in states that allow spirits sales, are starting to carry baijiu. When visiting these stores, check the spirits section near the imported liqueurs or ask an employee about availability. Because supply can be sporadic, calling ahead may save you a wasted trip.
2.3 – Bars, Restaurants and Cocktail Lounges
For drinkers who prefer to taste before buying, bars and restaurants provide another way to answer Where to Buy Baijiu. Chinese and pan‑Asian eateries in major U.S. cities often have baijiu on their beverage lists. Some bars specialize in baijiu cocktails, Lumos in New York City was the first dedicated baijiu cocktail bar in the U.S., and today venues such as Mott 32 in Las Vegas and Red Farm in Los Angeles also pour baijiu drinks. Additionally, pop‑up tastings at restaurants or cultural festivals allow curious drinkers to sample a range of baijius and may offer on‑site bottle sales. Socializing with bartenders and brand ambassadors at these events often yields insider tips on Where to Buy Baijiu locally.
2.4 – Duty‑Free Shops and Airport Stores
Travelers frequently ask Where to Buy Baijiu while on the road. Duty‑free shops at major international airports in China (Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu) and some global hubs stock popular baijiu brands. The China Journey notes that airports “offer popular brands at competitive prices”. Shopping duty‑free can be cost‑effective because taxes are waived for travelers leaving the country, though availability varies by airport. If you’re flying through Hong Kong, Singapore, Seoul or Dubai, check duty‑free catalogues ahead of time to see if baijiu is listed. Note that duty‑free allowances depend on your destination country’s customs regulations; consult current guidelines to avoid excess duties.
2.5 – Local Regulations and Age Restrictions
Each U.S. state sets its own alcohol laws, and this affects Where to Buy Baijiu. Some states, such as Utah and Pennsylvania, operate state‑controlled liquor stores where baijiu may not yet be stocked. Others, like Florida and Nevada, allow private retailers to sell spirits, making baijiu more accessible. In all states, buyers must be at least 21 years old. Because baijiu typically ranges from 40 % to over 60 % ABV, many retailers place baijiu behind the counter or in locked cabinets. Bring identification when purchasing in person or accepting home deliveries.
3 – Where to Buy Baijiu in Canada
Canada’s spirits market is provincial, with government‑run liquor stores in most provinces. Shoppers wondering Where to Buy Baijiu should first check these provincial stores’ online catalogues. For example, the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) occasionally lists bottles of Moutai and Wuliangye; British Columbia’s BC Liquor Stores have carried Fenjiu and smaller brands; Alberta’s private retailers such as Keg n Bottle (Edmonton) stock a broader range. Asian supermarkets in Vancouver and Toronto also sell baijiu, particularly brands favored by the local Chinese community. Like the U.S., Canada restricts alcohol shipments between provinces, so ordering online may require picking up in person or using a local courier. As with other regions, ensure you’re over the legal drinking age (18 or 19 depending on province) and have identification ready.
4 – Where to Buy Baijiu in Europe
Europe’s baijiu market remains young, but there are promising pockets of availability. Asking Where to Buy Baijiu in Europe yields different answers depending on the country. Recent media reports highlight increased demand: a China Daily article notes that “ample stocks of baijiu are being purchased by popular supermarket chains in Britain”. That suggests some larger UK grocers, particularly those in areas with significant Asian communities, are experimenting with baijiu inventory. In London, high‑end food halls like Fortnum & Mason, Selfridges and Harrods occasionally feature luxury baijius in their spirits departments. Specialist spirits shops such as The Whisky Exchange also sometimes stock baijiu.
4.1 – United Kingdom
The UK has seen a surge in baijiu interest thanks in part to educational efforts by bars like the Jaded Dragon in Bristol, which opened in 2025 as the country’s first dedicated baijiu bar. While mainstream supermarkets still rarely stock baijiu, Chinese supermarkets in London’s Chinatown and Manchester’s Chinese district carry bottles of Er Guo Tou, Luzhou Laojiao and Moutai. Online, UK‑based e‑commerce sites like Masters of Malt and The Drinks Shop occasionally list baijiu, but import duties can raise prices. When you’re unsure Where to Buy Baijiu in the UK, checking the websites of major spirits retailers or visiting Chinatown liquor shops is a good starting point.
4.2 – Continental Europe
On the European continent, baijiu remains mostly confined to niche importers and Chinese grocery stores. Germany’s specialist Asian supermarkets in Berlin and Frankfurt sometimes carry strong‑aroma baijiu, and Parisian bars such as Mademoiselle Mouche have experimented with baijiu cocktails. In Scandinavia, state monopolies like Sweden’s Systembolaget may list a single baijiu brand in their online catalogues. The CGTN article on Europe’s baijiu market observed that only about 20,000 litres of baijiu are exported from China each year, highlighting the limited supply; this scarcity explains why Europeans still seldom encounter baijiu on store shelves. Therefore, if you ask Where to Buy Baijiu on the continent, the answer often involves searching at Chinese supermarkets or ordering from UK retailers that ship within the EU.
5 – Where to Buy Baijiu in Asia (Outside Mainland China)
In Asian markets outside China, the question Where to Buy Baijiu receives more positive answers. In Hong Kong, specialty liquor shops and upscale supermarkets like City’s uper regularly stock baijiu. Duty‑free stores at Hong Kong International Airport offer selections of Moutai, Wuliangye and Luzhou Laojiao, often at slightly lower prices than in the city. In Taiwan, baijiu is sold alongside Taiwanese sorghum spirits such as Kaoliang; supermarkets like PX Mart and Simple Mart carry mainstream brands, while bottle shops in Taipei’s Yongkang Street specialize in more premium options. Singapore’s growing cocktail scene has embraced baijiu, and high‑end retailers such as The Liquor Library and Taiwanese chain 1855 The Bottle Shop stock bottles. Asking Where to Buy Baijiu in these markets is easier because of long‑standing trade links with mainland producers.
5.1 – Hong Kong and Macau
These two Special Administrative Regions maintain independent customs regimes, which means they import baijiu separately from mainland China. Most major hotels and casinos in Macau carry baijiu brands due to the influx of Chinese tourists. In Hong Kong, look for baijiu in specialty spirit shops located in Central, Tsim Sha Tsui and Causeway Bay. Many shops offer tasting flights, making them ideal for learning about different aroma styles before deciding Where to Buy Baijiu.
5.2 – Southeast Asia
In countries like Singapore, Malaysia and Vietnam, baijiu availability varies. Singapore has the widest selection thanks to its status as a regional trade hub. Major supermarket chains such as FairPrice and Cold Storage stock a few baijiu brands; independent bottle shops provide more variety. Malaysia’s alcohol laws are stricter, but Chinese communities in Kuala Lumpur and Penang can often find baijiu at local grocery stores. In Vietnam, baijiu distribution is limited to international hotels and specialty beverage stores catering to Chinese tourists. If you’re asking Where to Buy Baijiu while travelling through Southeast Asia, check duty‑free shops at airports, high‑end hotels and liquor boutiques in major cities.
5.3 – Australia and New Zealand
Oceania has seen rising interest in baijiu as well. In Australia, bottle shops such as Dan Murphy’s have trialled listing baijiu online, and Chinese supermarkets in Sydney and Melbourne stock a small selection. New Zealand’s state‑controlled liquor stores rarely carry baijiu, but specialist retailers in Auckland’s Dominion Road may order it on request. Both countries allow imports for personal use, so ordering through international online retailers is a viable answer to Where to Buy Baijiu down under.
6 – Duty‑Free, Travel and Airport Purchases
Many travellers plan their purchases around flights, making airports a key part of the conversation about Where to Buy Baijiu. According to The China Journey, duty‑free shops in Chinese airports offer popular baijiu brands at competitive prices. This includes large hubs like Beijing Capital, Shanghai Pudong and Chengdu Tianfu, where dedicated baijiu boutiques carry bottles of Moutai, Wuliangye, Jiannanchun and other premium labels. Hong Kong’s duty‑free stores stock baijiu as well, but selection can fluctuate based on seasonal demand and supply constraints.
Outside Asia, travelers occasionally find baijiu in duty‑free shops at global hubs such as Singapore Changi, Dubai International and London Heathrow. However, the selection is usually limited to flagship Moutai or Wuliangye. Because airport inventories change frequently, travellers should consult the duty‑free retailer’s website or app before departure to confirm whether baijiu is available and to pre‑order if the service is offered. When buying at airports, always check your destination’s customs allowances; some countries limit the amount of high‑ABV spirits you can bring in, and baijiu often exceeds 50 % alcohol.
7 – How to Spot Fake Baijiu and Ensure Quality
As baijiu expands beyond China, counterfeit bottles have become a problem. Choosing reputable sellers is an essential part of Where to Buy Baijiu. The China Journey warns that counterfeits are a real concern with high‑end brands like Moutai. Buyers should always check for QR codes, tamper‑evident seals and security labels on the bottle. Legitimate bottles often feature detailed embossing, holograms and perfect printing. When shopping online, buy from official brand websites or authorized retailers. In person, choose established liquor stores rather than unregulated marketplaces. If a price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Remember that proper storage is also critical: baijiu should be kept upright at stable room temperature, ideally between 15–25 °C (59–77 °F), as recommended by experts. Although baijiu does not age significantly in bottle, good storage prevents deterioration.
8 – Beginners’ Recommendations: Where to Buy Baijiu for First‑Time Drinkers
Selecting the right bottle can be daunting, so this section provides specific suggestions on Where to Buy Baijiu for beginners. To start with something approachable, look for light‑aroma and strong‑aroma baijiu in the $30–$60 range. Luzhou Laojiao Zisha Daqu, available from stores like Don’s Liquors & Wine, offers a classic strong‑aroma profile, fruity, floral and slightly funky, without the high price tag of aged Moutai. Fenjiu 10‑year, often found in Chinese supermarkets, represents the light‑aroma style with mellow fruit notes and a softer finish. For cocktails, Ming River’s Sichuan Baijiu is a go‑to; it is sold through ShopMingRiver.com and at bar supply stores in many U.S. cities. When sampling baijiu for the first time, purchase a smaller bottle (375 ml) so you can explore different aromas without committing to a large quantity.
9 – Enthusiast’s Corner: Collectible Baijiu and Limited Editions
Collectors often ask Where to Buy Baijiu that appreciates in value. Premium distilleries release limited editions tied to lunar new year themes, historic anniversaries or special packaging. These bottles often command high prices and are prime targets for counterfeiters. Specialty shops in China and Hong Kong are the primary sources for genuine limited releases. Auction houses like Sotheby’s Hong Kong have hosted baijiu auctions featuring rare Moutai vintages, demonstrating growing collector interest. In the West, limited releases sometimes appear on wine‑search aggregator sites or at duty‑free auctions. Serious collectors should verify provenance and consider storing bottles in secure wine cellars to maintain value. While most readers simply want to know Where to Buy Baijiu for drinking, collectors should research thoroughly and work with trusted brokers.
10 – Summary and Future Trends
As of 2025, the simplest answers to Where to Buy Baijiu are evolving. The spirit’s popularity is increasing internationally, thanks to globalization, cocktail culture and the curiosity of adventurous drinkers. Authoritative sources report that baijiu is appearing in supermarkets and bars across the U.S. and that British supermarket chains are stocking it. Online platforms like Drizly, Ace Spirits and Shop Ming River offer convenient home delivery. Chinese supermarkets and specialty liquor stores remain reliable local options, while duty‑free shops and airports provide opportunities for travelers. In Europe and Canada, availability is still limited, but interest is growing. Counterfeit awareness and proper storage techniques are essential considerations when deciding Where to Buy Baijiu.
Looking ahead, expect baijiu distribution to expand further as producers collaborate with Western distributors and cocktail bars. New categories like low‑alcohol and flavored baijiu are making the spirit more approachable for first‑time drinkers. Educational efforts, cocktail classes, tasting flights and cultural festivals, are helping Western consumers appreciate baijiu’s diversity. Ultimately, understanding Where to Buy Baijiu is just the first step. The more we learn about its history, production methods and cultural significance, the more we can enjoy this complex spirit responsibly and respectfully.