How Much Alcohol is in Rice Wine?

Rice wine has been cherished across Asia for centuries — from warming confinement dishes to celebratory meals and everyday cooking. But one of the most common questions people ask is: how much alcohol is actually in Chinese rice wine?

At Ye Traditions, we stay true to our grandmother’s handcrafted method — brewing small-batch Chinese rice wines naturally, without preservatives, sugar, or salt. And unlike many commercial rice wines, which typically contain 12–18% alcohol, ours is brewed at a lighter, gentler 7% ABV.

Typical Alcohol Content in Rice Wine

Most rice wines fall in this range:

• Traditional Chinese rice wine: 12–18% ABV

• Japanese sake: 12–16% ABV

• Homemade/heritage brews: anywhere between 8–18% ABV depending on recipe

So why is Ye Traditions rice wine only 7%?

Why Ye Traditions Rice Wine is 7% ABV

Our rice wine follows a heritage brewing style that keeps fermentation gentler, since this recipe started with our grandparents using it for postpartum nourishment. Here’s why that matters:

• Naturally Balanced Flavor – A lighter fermentation means more natural rice sweetness is preserved, giving our wine a smoother, more delicate taste.

• Perfect for Cooking – At 7%, the wine still enhances flavor, tenderizes meat, and releases aroma — without overpowering your dish.

• Gentle on the Body – Traditionally brewed for confinement and daily cooking, this alcohol level makes it warming and restorative while easy to enjoy.

• Modern Lifestyle Friendly – Many prefer lighter alcohol beverages today. Our 7% ABV rice wine is versatile — sip a small glass or use it in your cooking.

FAQs About Rice Wine Alcohol Content

Final Thoughts

So, how much alcohol is in rice wine? Generally 12–18% ABV. But at Ye Traditions, our handcrafted rice wine is brewed at a gentler ~7% ABV — honouring heritage, balancing flavor, and making a wine that’s perfect for both cooking and sipping.