In this article, we’ll take a look at fifteen of the most popular Asian spirits, cocktails, and beers. Some of them are better than others for people who experience Asian glow, which we’ll list out at the end.

Saké (Japan)

Saké, a revered Japanese rice wine, is created through the meticulous fermentation of polished rice. This beverage is central to Japanese culture, often consumed during special occasions and ceremonies. It boasts a range of flavors from sweet to dry and can be enjoyed warm or chilled. Saké's complexity is attributed to the quality of rice and the precision of the brewing process, making it a sophisticated choice for connoisseurs.

Junmai (Japan)

Junmai saké, made purely from rice, water, yeast, and koji mold without added alcohol, offers a richer and fuller body compared to other types. Its production requires rice that has been polished to remove at least 30% of the outer layer, leading to a pure expression of the rice's flavor. Junmai is typically enjoyed warm and pairs excellently with a wide variety of Japanese dishes, providing a robust counterpart to delicate flavors.

Shochu (Japan)

Shochu is a versatile Japanese spirit distilled from barley, sweet potatoes, or rice. Known for its light and smooth texture, it can be consumed neat, on the rocks, or as a cocktail mixer. Shochu holds a unique position in Japanese drinking culture due to its lower alcohol content compared to other spirits and its subtle flavor which complements rather than overpowers the meal.

Umeshu (Japan)

Umeshu is a sweet and fragrant Japanese liqueur made by steeping unripe ume plums in alcohol and sugar. It's cherished for its delightful balance of sweetness and acidity, making it a popular after-dinner drink. Umeshu can be served on the rocks, mixed with soda, or used in cocktails, and is noted for its health benefits, including aiding digestion.

Japanese Whisky (Japan)

Japanese whisky, recognized for its craftsmanship and smoothness, often draws comparisons to Scotch due to similar distillation processes. Distilleries in Japan focus on the purity of ingredients and precise aging methods, resulting in a clean, refined taste. This whisky can be enjoyed neat, with water, or on the rocks, and has gained international acclaim for its quality.

Cheongju (Korea)

Cheongju is a traditional Korean rice wine, similar to Japanese saké, known for its clear, smooth taste. It's made from fermented steamed rice and is often used in ceremonial offerings. Cheongju is best served chilled and offers a subtle flavor, which makes it a refined accompaniment to Korean cuisine.

Soju (Korea)

Soju, a clear, colorless distilled beverage from Korea, is traditionally made from rice, although modern versions might use other starches. Soju is popular for its versatility and mild flavor, making it a favorite in Korean dining and nightlife. Typically consumed neat, it can also be mixed in various cocktails, appealing to a broad audience.

Baijiu (China)

Baijiu is a strong Chinese spirit made from sorghum or other grains. Known for its bold and fiery flavor, it plays a significant role in Chinese social and business gatherings. Baijiu is generally enjoyed neat at room temperature and is central to many traditional Chinese celebrations and ceremonies.

Huangjiu (China)

Huangjiu, or "yellow wine," is a traditional Chinese alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice or wheat. With an alcohol content lower than that of baijiu, it features a sweet, mellow flavor and is often used in Chinese cooking as well as enjoyed on its own. Huangjiu is best served warm and is known for its health benefits, including promoting digestion.

Gin and Tonic (India)

Gin and Tonic, a classic cocktail introduced in Holland as well as India to fight malaria, has gained popularity worldwide for its refreshing and simple composition. The drink combines gin with tonic water and a slice of lime or lemon, offering a crisp and slightly bitter taste that makes it a favorite in warm climates and social settings.

Singha Beer (Thailand)

Singha Beer, an iconic Thai lager, is brewed with quality barley malt and hops, resulting in a crisp, golden beer with a slightly spicy and hoppy flavor. It pairs excellently with spicy Thai dishes and is enjoyed both domestically and internationally, embodying the essence of Thai craftsmanship in brewing.

Tsingtao Beer (China)

Tsingtao Beer, one of China's oldest and most famous beers, is known for its fine quality and refreshing flavor. Brewed in Qingdao since the early 20th century, it features a blend of fresh spring water, barley malt, yeast, and hops. Tsingtao is enjoyed worldwide and is particularly popular in China's bustling food markets and restaurants.

San Miguel Beer (Philippines)

San Miguel Beer is a Philippine staple with a legacy of brewing since 1890. This lager is smooth with a balanced hoppy bitterness, making it the perfect companion for the diverse flavors of Filipino cuisine. Itis the drink of choice for many. Whether enjoyed in a casual setting or during traditional festivities, it offers a light, refreshing experience that complements the tropical climate.

Chang Beer (Thailand)

Chang Beer is celebrated throughout Thailand for its smooth, malty taste and high drinkability. This lager features a well-balanced flavor profile that pairs well with the bold tastes of Thai cuisine, making it a staple in both local and international markets. Its appeal lies in its versatility and the ability to refresh and satisfy in the humid Thai climate.

Lambanog (Philippines)

Lambanog is a traditional Filipino spirit distilled from coconut sap, boasting a high alcohol content and a clear, potent flavor. Often referred to as "coconut vodka," it is enjoyed by locals both in its pure form and as part of various cocktails. Lambanog embodies the spirit of Philippine ingenuity and offers a unique taste that is gaining popularity among spirit enthusiasts worldwide.

Best Options For Asian Glow

If you experience alcohol flushing, or “Asian glow”, you’ll want to stick to a drink that is low in alcohol content, low in sugar, and low in congeners. Our “Best Alcohol for Asian Flush” blog has more information.

Out of this list, these are the drinks you’ll want to stick to if you experience flushing when drinking alcohol:

• Gin and tonic
• Saké (especially Junmai)
• Shochu
• Cheongju

There are also supplements that aim to maintain your natural glow. Our alcohol flush support gummy can help reduce the appearance of Asian glow symptoms.

Ando Gummy has ingredients like Dihydromyricetin, which support your body's ability to break down Acetaldehyde. Click the link above to learn more!

Recap

In this article, we explored fifteen popular Asian alcoholic beverages, showcasing a range of spirits, cocktails, and beers from Japan, Korea, China, and beyond. 

Highlights include Saké, known for its delicate flavors and cultural significance in Japan; Shochu, appreciated for its versatility and mild taste; and Baijiu, recognized for its bold intensity in China. 

We also cover lighter options like Cheongju and flavorful concoctions like Umeshu. 

Beers such as Singha and Tsingtao reflect regional brewing traditions, while unique spirits like Lambanog offer a taste of Filipino heritage.