Core Viewpoint - The pricing of Baijiu in Deyang is influenced by a complex interplay of raw material costs, production processes, consumer demand, and brand value, reflecting the city's drinking habits and market dynamics [1][7]. Raw Material Costs - The price of glutinous sorghum, a key ingredient for high-quality Baijiu, has increased from 3.8 yuan per jin last year to 5.2 yuan per jin this year, a rise of over 36%, which directly raises the production costs of pure grain solid-state fermented Baijiu [3]. - For locally produced strong-flavor Baijiu, the price for a 500ml bottle typically exceeds 180 yuan when made from local glutinous sorghum, while those made from ordinary northeastern sorghum can be as low as 70 yuan, creating a price difference of nearly 1.6 times [3]. - The price of auxiliary materials like wheat and rice is also sensitive to fluctuations, with a drought last summer causing a 1200 yuan per ton increase in the price of some mid-to-low-end Baijiu, which was reflected in the market within two months [3]. Production Complexity - Traditional Daqu strong-flavor production involves multiple steps, including "continuation of fermentation, solid-state fermentation, and solid-state distillation," taking up to 45 days, resulting in a base cost of 60 yuan per jin, with market prices generally above 200 yuan per bottle [4]. - In contrast, liquid-state Baijiu, which uses edible alcohol for blending, has a production cycle of only 3 days, with 500ml bottles often priced below 40 yuan [4]. Aging and Brand Value - The aging process significantly affects pricing, with "three-year aged" strong-flavor Baijiu priced 50% higher than newly brewed products, and "five-year aged" premium versions can exceed 800 yuan due to enhanced flavor from esterification during aging [4]. - National high-end brands maintain stable prices around 1300 yuan per bottle for their core products, with brand premium accounting for over 70% of the price [4]. - Regional strong brands offer mid-range products priced between 120-350 yuan per bottle, becoming popular choices for weddings and business gatherings, with annual price fluctuations around 12% [4]. Consumer Demand and Market Segmentation - The wedding market favors "red bottle celebratory versions," with 500ml bottles priced between 90-200 yuan, while business dinners focus on mid-to-high-end products priced above 300 yuan, which include costs for packaging and brand marketing [5]. - Daily consumption favors products priced between 60-150 yuan per bottle, while bulk purchases of high-proof bulk liquor are stable at 18-30 yuan per jin, with prices potentially increasing by up to 10% before the Spring Festival due to heightened demand [5]. Market Dynamics - Prices for mid-to-low-end Baijiu typically rise by 8%-12% in the two months leading up to the Spring Festival due to concentrated demand, followed by a gradual price adjustment post-festival [5]. - Local festivals and events can cause temporary price increases for custom Baijiu, which return to normal after the events conclude [5]. - Imported Baijiu prices are more affected by exchange rates and tariffs, with a specific Scottish whisky increasing by 15% over six months due to the appreciation of the pound, while logistics cost reductions from the China-Europe Railway have led to a 10% decrease in some imported vodka prices [5].