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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.

Brennerei Schulze Rötering: Sophisticated recipes from Münsterland

The picturesque manor in Westphalia surrounded by a moat is run by the 6th generation of the Schulze Rötering family. Alcohol has been artisanally distilled from wheat here with passion since 1767. The most important roles are played by first-class raw materials, especially wheat, from the company’s own fields. Fruits, herbs, spices and fruit juices also play their part in the quality of the distillates, spirits and liqueurs. The soil and the excellent water of the Münsterland Cretaceous Basin are characteristic of this region that produces first-class agricultural products.

Distillation takes place in a specially made facility with an over 19-metre-high, copper rectification plant which is visible from afar. Inside there are 60 bubble cap trays for the complex distillation which is vital for the purity of the alcohol. The mild, aromatic middle run is responsible for around 60 percent of it. The interplay of fine ingredients creates sensory experiences that leave a lasting impression. The later storage of the premium products in old wooden barrels (previously containing red wine, Madeira, Grand Marnier or bourbon) allows the distillates to combine with the aromas of the previous content as well as the wood. Bottling only takes place after a long maturing process.

At the World Spirits Award, there was double gold for Münsterländer Doppelkorn, gold for Münsterländer Edelkorn aged in a bourbon barrel 32%, Münsterländer Edelkorn aged in a rum barrel and Wodka N° 1 aged in a Jack Daniel’s barrel, and silver for Wodka N° 2 aged in a brandy barrel.

South Seas Distilleries: India’s pioneer of premium spirits

South Seas Distilleries is one of the most traditional distilleries in India and embodies over four generations of craftsmanship, combining local raw materials and a spirit of innovation with global quality standards. Founded in 1984 in Dahanu, Maharashtra, South Seas was one of the early pioneers of producing classic single malt whiskies in India. Early on, the distillery relied on high-quality pot still technology from Scotland and later built the largest copper pot stills in the country as well as an extensive maturation warehouse for spirits with depth and character.

The philosophy of the distillery is based on a simple but powerful credo: quality before quantity, substance before spectacle. This claim is reflected in products such as the Crazy Cock single malt whisky, a multi-matured India single malt that displays a rich aroma profile with warmth, complexity and finesse thanks to careful cask selection (ex-bourbon, ex-sherry).

However, South Seas goes beyond the classic whisky tradition. With Six Brothers Mahura, a centuries-old Indian spirit category has been revived. Presented as a luxurious heritage spirit with global ambition, they are an expression of India’s cultural depth and regional heritage – unique in this form worldwide. At a time when the premium spirits market is increasingly looking for authenticity and origin, South Seas is sending out a clear signal, namely that tradition and innovation can be combined to create spirits that delight experts and curious connoisseurs alike.

At the World Spirits Award, there was Gold for Six Brothers Mahura, and Silver for Crazy Cock The Single Malt Whisky – Madhuca 1 and Crazy Cock The Single Malt Whisky – DHUA.