China Whiskey Market Research Report, 2028

China, power by a growing middle class, changing consumption patterns, and a desire for luxury products. Despite the dominance of traditional Chinese spirits like baijiu, whiskey has carved out a niche for itself. The market has been buoyed by an expanding consumer base and increasing disposable incomes. Chinese consumers' taste preferences have evolved over time, and there is a growing appreciation for whiskey's distinct flavors and craftsmanship. The younger generation, in particular, is showing a strong inclination towards exploring international spirits and embracing western drinking culture. This shift is attributed to factors such as globalization, exposure to international travel, and the influence of social media. China's rising middle class has a strong desire for premium products, including whiskey. The perception of whiskey as a luxury and aspirational item has driven demand for high-end and premium brands. Chinese consumers are increasingly willing to spend more on quality whiskey, demonstrating a growing brand consciousness and a desire to explore diverse flavor profiles. Single malt Scotch whiskey has gained popularity in China, driven by its reputation for exceptional quality and craftsmanship. It is increasingly perceived as a premium choice among whiskey enthusiasts and collectors. While imported whiskey still dominates the market, Chinese distilleries have started producing their own brands. These domestic whiskey brands are leveraging local ingredients and craftsmanship, appealing to consumers looking for a unique and homegrown experience.

According to the research report “China Whiskey Market Research Report, 2028," published by Actual Market Research, The China Whiskey Market is projected to reach market size of more than USD 2.95 Billion by 2028. In Chinese culture, the act of giving gifts holds great significance, and whiskey has become a popular choice for gifting occasions. Premium whiskey bottles, especially those with elegant packaging or limited editions, are often given as gifts during festivals, special occasions, or business exchanges. Whiskey has become synonymous with sophistication and is seen as a prestigious and thoughtful gift option. Whiskey consumption in China is often associated with social gatherings and networking. It is seen as a symbol of status, sophistication, and success. Displaying a collection of premium whiskey bottles has become a way to showcase wealth and discerning taste, particularly among affluent individuals. Alongside the rise in whiskey consumption, there has been a surge in cocktail culture in China. Whiskey-based cocktails, such as Old Fashioned, Manhattan, and Whiskey Sour, have gained popularity among young urban consumers. Bars and mixology establishments cater to this trend by offering a wide selection of whiskey-based cocktails, attracting a diverse range of consumers. Chinese whiskey market is dominated by imported brands. Scotch whisky, in particular, holds a strong position in terms of market share and consumer preference. Other international whiskey varieties, such as bourbon and Irish whiskey, also have a presence in the market. Whiskey appreciation clubs, tasting events, and festivals have gained popularity in major cities across China. These gatherings provide opportunities for whiskey enthusiasts to learn about different whiskey styles, production techniques, and to socialize with like-minded individuals.

The growth of e-commerce platforms and online retail channels has been instrumental in expanding the reach of whiskey brands in China. Online platforms provide a convenient way for consumers to access a wide range of whiskey products, including rare and limited editions. The Chinese market presents unique challenges in terms of regulations and market access for foreign whiskey brands. Understanding and navigating the regulatory landscape is crucial for success in this market. Educating consumers about whiskey production, different styles, and flavor profiles can further drive the market. Whiskey tasting events, brand ambassadors, and educational campaigns can play a pivotal role in expanding consumer knowledge and appreciation. The China whiskey market is not homogenous, and regional preferences and tastes vary. Exploring opportunities in second-tier cities and developing regions can unlock new avenues for growth. China whiskey market stands as a testament to this harmonious fusion, a playground of possibilities for both international distillers and domestic pioneers. Single malt Scotch, bourbon, Irish whiskey, and innovative blends alike now grace the shelves of luxury bars, stylish lounges, and the private collections of connoisseurs across the nation. In this captivating market, where dragons and casks coexist, the journey is far from over. It is a market fueled by the quest for knowledge and the desire to savor every drop of possibility. As the curtain rises on this enchanting chapter, we invite you to venture forth, where the East meets the West, and the spirit of whiskey finds its home in the hearts of the Middle Kingdom.

One of the most well-known and respected distilleries in China is the Kweichow Moutai Distillery, located in the town of Maotai in Guizhou Province. While primarily renowned for producing baijiu, a traditional Chinese spirit, the distillery has also made a name for itself in the whiskey world. The Kweichow Moutai Distillery entered the whiskey market with its brand, Kweichow Moutai Prince Whiskey. This premium Chinese whiskey is crafted using traditional Scottish distillation techniques and aged in oak casks, resulting in a unique flavor profile that combines elements of both Scottish whiskey and Chinese spirits. With its strong brand heritage and expertise in distillation, the Kweichow Moutai Distillery has successfully established itself as a prominent distillery in China, showcasing the country's ability to produce high-quality whiskey while infusing it with its own cultural influences. In China, the most commonly used grain to make whiskey is barley. Barley is the primary grain of choice for producing whiskey due to its ability to contribute desirable flavors and characteristics during the fermentation and distillation processes. Barley provides a rich and malty flavor profile, which is highly sought after in whiskey production. Chinese whiskey producers often utilize both domestically grown barley and imported barley varieties to achieve the desired flavor profiles and quality standards. The use of barley in Chinese whiskey production aligns with the influence of traditional whiskey-making techniques from countries such as Scotland, where barley is also a primary grain used in Scotch whiskey production. While barley is the predominant grain used, some Chinese whiskey producers also experiment with other grains such as corn, wheat, and rice to create unique flavor profiles and add diversity to their whiskey offerings. These variations in grain selection contribute to the distinct characteristics and taste profiles of Chinese whiskey.

Considered in this report:
• Geography: China
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report:
• China Whiskey Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Grain Type:
• Malt/ Barley Whisky
• Wheat Whisky
• Rye Whisky
• Corn Whisky
• Blended Whisky
• Others

By Type:
• Scotch Whiskey
• American Whiskey
• Irish Whiskey
• Canadian Whiskey
• Japaneese Whiskey
• Others

By Quality:
• Premium
• High-End Premium
• Super Premium

By Beverage Type:
• Alcoholic
• Non-Alcoholic

By Flavor:
• Non-Flavored
• Flavored

By Distribution Channel:
• Off Trade
• On Trade

By Off Trade Distribution Channel:
• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
• Liquor Stores
• Online Stores
• Others

By On Trade Distribution Channel:
• Hotels, Restaurants & Bars
• Others

By Age of Whisky:
• Below 12 Years
• 12 to 18 Years
• Above 18 Years


The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analyzing the government generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us. we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience:
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to whiskey industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.

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