Difference in production process: Huadiao wine is made from yellow rice, rice curd and spring water through a number of processes, in which the yellow rice undergoes a series of steps, such as soaking, steaming and fermentation, and then aged for a long period of time; whereas cooking wine is a kind of cooking seasoning made by adding a small portion of rice wine with a small amount of salt, spices and other additives.

Differences in raw materials: Hua Diao wine is made mainly from yellow rice, with sometimes only other cereal auxiliary ingredients, which gives Hua Diao wine a stronger taste and more distinctive aroma; and料酒 is made from rice, with the addition of salt, spices, and other seasonings to add flavor to the cooking.