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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.

Clint Wilfred & Sons – Good taste for rapidly expanding markets

Clint Wilfred & Sons Ltd brings a carefully selected portfolio of drinks to the Gulf region and Southeast Asia. The young company targets fast-moving products in the HORECA – Hotel/Restaurant/Café and Hotel/Restaurant/Catering market segment. It is run by Clint Wilfred, whose family has been in the spirit production and distribution business for over four decades.

One main focus of business activities lies in the United Arab Emirates. To offer new products on this rapidly growing market is a great challenge, as the demand for premium and niche products is constantly increasing and customers’ wishes are very diverse. The range, therefore, also includes non-alcoholic and carbonated soft drinks, still and sparkling water, ready-to-drink teas, energy sport drinks and other New Age drinks. There is also a strong focus on a wide selection of packaging sizes and formats.

One special product in the spirits product category is Count Cristo Blended Scotch Whisky, a premium blend with a high malt content from the Scottish Speyside region and with some lowland malt for added depth and character.

At the World Spirits Award, there was gold for Count Cristo Blended Scotch Whisky.

Suburbia Spirits: Gin as a common denominator

Tobias Fadinger and David Pointner grew up in a little suburb of Salzburg and have been friends since childhood. They have also spent many sociable evenings together where Tobias’ father, who has been in the spirits business for over 30 years, often contributed his delicious cocktail creations. This was of course a source of inspiration, and the goal was ‘to go out among the distillers and create exceptional spirits’. A lot of time and dedication flowed into the manufacturing of the drinks, bearing the name Suburbia Spirits. This stands for more than just the production of spirits, it also stands for passion and a zest for life.

The unusual chocolate liqueur is based on lemongrass gin. A bitter chocolate mash and harmonious ingredients give it a finely tangy yet sweet touch. This aromatic combination also makes the liqueur less thick than conventional liqueurs and pleasantly light on the palate. “We like to drink our gin liqueur as a shot and on the rocks, but it is also quite fitting as part of creative cocktails.”

The handcrafted lemongrass gin is not dominated by juniper, as the revitalising lemongrass gives it very fresh aromas. Blossom and citrus fruit are complemented by a hint of vanilla for a rounded aftertaste. This mix not only delights gin lovers but also gets gin newcomers into the taste. “We prefer to drink our gin on the rocks on a balmy summer evening in good company.”

At the World Spirits Award, gold was awarded to Gin mit Lemongrass (lemongrass gin), and bronze to Gin-Likör Schokolade (chocolate gin liqueur).