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Kweichow Moutai: China’s ‘national schnapps’ on the rise

Baijiu is the most popular alcoholic drink in China and Moutai the most famous brand, with a similar status to vodka in Russia or tequila in Mexico. Its origins go back over 2,000 years to the time of Emperor Wu of Han. These days, the national drink is frequently served at official state banquets and is used as the official state gift. Its protected source is the village of Maotai in the Guizhou province on the banks of the Chishui, the Red River. These days, more than 30,000 tons of the 53 percent alcohol Moutai are produced. In cooperation with Camus, a limited edition was launched as an homage to the greatest poets: after Li Bai in 2013, Du Fu followed in 2018. The elegant bottle showing a painting of a poem is made from the finest porcelain.

Traditional methods are used for the distillation of regional raw materials: organic sorghum and wheat and the best water. Fermentation takes place at high temperatures. During the production process, which takes a year, fresh grain is added twice to the boilers, then several boiling and fermentation processes take place. Every batch of the distillate is separated according to age, production cycle and aroma. It then matures slowly in terracotta containers and, during the storage period of at least five years, develops a fine soya aroma. Master blenders make sure that the characteristic, full flavour is preserved. The secret lies in the humid climate, the water from the Chishui, as well as in the distillation technique and maturing period.

At the World Spirits Award, there was double gold for Kweichou Moutai Du Fu Edition.

Fünfundsechzig07: Five men – one mission

In summer 2018, a decision was made by Christian Dautermann, Heinz Dengel, Thorsten Winternheimer and Jörg and Joachim Schweizer: Ingelheim needed a gin, and one with depth. Edgy, strong and distinctive. No sooner said than done: the result is a local version of the cult spirit, with the noteworthy name Fünfundsechzig07. Every true Ingelheim local knows that is the old postcode of the Rhine-Hessian town – and at the same time a liquid declaration of love to their hometown.

19 botanicals in the Ingelheim Dry Gin provide a true taste explosion. Lemongrass, cardamom, orange blossom and bitter orange make it a distinctive counterpart to the predominantly sweetish range of gins. “Fünfundsechzig07 is simply different: edgy, deep and full of character – just as a product from our hometown should taste,” Thorsten Winternheimer states. The expertise was provided by Heinz Dengel, in whose distillery, in existence since 1882, the gin was produced. A labour of love, as he explains: “It was our first gin, but thanks to plenty of experience no problem. On the contrary, we are happy to be able to try out something new.” Christian Dautermann, who presented the gin at his wine tasting days, is also impressed. The gin is also well-received among wine drinkers. “We met with great interest and the feedback was very positive. This motivates us, of course,” the vintner is delighted to report.

At the World Spirits Award, gold was awarded to Fünfundsechzig07 Ingelheim Dry Gin.

Prodal'94 – Strong brands from Romania

Founded nearly 15 years ago, Prodal is now one of the largest producers of alcoholic drinks in Romania. Two stars from the product range – and market leaders in each of their categories – are the Wembley Dry Gin and Stalinskaya Vodka. The distinctive bottle and label designs come from the internationally recognised London company Claessens, a specialist on the international drinks market. At the World Spirits Award, the gin rated excellent, with double gold (Spirit of the Year 2014). The vodka received a gold medal.

The name Stalinskaya comes from the Russian word ‘stal’, which can be translated as ‘hard as steel’. Following an old Russian recipe, the vodka is produced with the most modern technology, the base ingredient is premium alcohol from the best grain. Stalinskaya came on the market in 1996 and grew constantly, today it is the number one with about 40% market share. The brand’s central motto, ‘For the strong’, is a central theme through all the advertising campaigns, whether print, film or video. Lots of ice and snow, a large dose of the male spirit for adventure, and always with a friend at their side – this also describes Stalinskaya: pure and authentic, and of the best quality.

The Wembley London Dry Gin came on the market in 2001 and became market leader in only eight months. It is still the most popular gin in Romania. Based on a traditional English recipe, distilled with the latest technology, it is ‘very British’. The name Wembley also evokes a district with history, and strong links to the concepts of entertainment and happiness. Londoners’ penchant for traditional values is underlined by the label design with the symbol of the British crown.