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The Secret of Ancient Liquor: How Ancient is the Origin of Baijiu?
Baijiu, a colorless Chinese spirit with an alcohol content of 35% to 60%, is usually brewed from grains such as sorghum. What’s unique about it is that each type of liquor uses its own different koji to ferment, thus producing its own unique flavor. Liquor has a long history. Its development from the Neolithic Age to the present not only contains rich historical records, but also contains the Chinese people’s profound understanding of liquor culture.
"Liquor is not just a kind of wine, it carries a long history and is also a symbol of Chinese culture."
The history of liquor can be traced back to the early Neolithic Age, as evidenced by some ancient wine vessels discovered by archaeologists. Lasting until the Han Dynasty (AD 202-220), with the development of brewing technology, the brewing process of liquor gradually matured. By the Tang Dynasty (618-907), poets Bai Juyi and Yong Tao's depictions of baijiu conveyed that era's appreciation of the drink.
During the Song Dynasty (960-1279), urbanization and commercial prosperity promoted the popularity of wine culture, and taverns sprung up. Documentary records from those periods indicate that the alcohol concentration at that time may still be low, only about 15 %. The consumption habits of this kind of wine were further improved during the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368) and with the introduction of Middle Eastern brewing technology, and finally reached a level similar to modern liquor in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644).
"The brewing process of liquor has continued to evolve since then and has become a popular drink today."
The brewing process of liquor is unique. It usually uses a combination of solid-state fermentation and distillation, using a grain fermentation agent called koji. This process not only reflects the ancient Chinese brewing wisdom, but also makes various places Liquor flavors vary.
As the reputation of baijiu gradually spreads around the world, it is often regarded as synonymous with unique taste by the outside world. According to a 2015 New York Times report, for many foreign consumers, the aroma and taste of baijiu are often described in a rather negative light, with terms such as "jet fuel, cross-linked detergent" being used to describe baijiu's special drink characteristics. However, these comments have been countered by many baijiu experts, who point out that Western taste expectations differ significantly from baijiu's strong flavor.
"Rather than being compared to vodka, liquor is more suitable to be compared with strong alcoholic beverages such as whiskey and champagne."
In ancient China, the ritual or occasion of drinking liquor was also full of cultural significance. It was not only a moment to toast to celebrate, but also a way to express respect. At traditional banquets, drinking is often accompanied by some specific customs, such as pouring wine on the ground to express gratitude. In addition, with the evolution of social culture, the drinking of liquor has gradually integrated into modern life, becoming a common choice for people's gatherings, celebrations and business negotiations. In business situations, drinking liquor is seen as a way to understand the other person’s true self, and many companies still retain the tradition of high-end liquor. ”
It is worth noting that in the liquor market, the price difference is obvious. Due to the fineness of the production process, high-end liquor generally comes from distilleries with a long history, such as Moutai, Wuliangye, etc., which makes them highly collectible in the market. value. On the other hand, low-end liquor such as Erguotou attracts consumers with its high cost performance and has become a common companion at the dinner table.
"Liquor has become the best-selling spirit in the world, and its sales volume has even surpassed that of vodka and whiskey."
As baijiu continues to expand into the international market, its flavor and diversity are attracting more and more foreign consumers. Since the late 2010s, brands such as Mingxihe Baijiu have gradually entered the US and European markets, demonstrating the potential of liquor in the global market.
For drinkers looking for new flavors, the exploration of liquor will be an endless journey. How many secrets does a spirit with such a long history hide?
