Japan Int’l Food Expo 2024 Featured Yellow Rice Wine
From June 19-21, twelve producers and distributors of yellow wine showcased at the Japan Int’l Food Expo (JFEX) in Tokyo. The expo featured a special zone dedicated to Shaoxing Huangjiu, allowing attendees to experience the traditional Chinese wine
An Introduction to Shaoxing Huangjiu – Yellow Rice Wine
Shaoxing is recognized for its scenic waterways, architecturally significant bridges, and scholarly pursuits. More so, the city is famous for the making of the yellow rice wine Shaoxing Huangjiu, an internationally acclaimed spirit.
One of the features of this expression is a distinctive profile created by the region’s incredibly diverse nature. Shaoxing Huangjiu is the essence of natural rice wine blending the spirit of nature with the grain. Reflecting the famous Chinese quote “Nature follows its seasons, the earth has its essence, materials possess beauty, and craftsmanship demonstrates skill.”
A variety of factors contribute to the distinctive nature of Shaoxing Huangjiu; the water from Jian Lake, the rice, and the humid climate. It is enhanced by a unique brewing technique passed down through generations. This testifies to the heritage and quality of East Asian winemaking.
Using water from Jian Lake, glutinous rice, and wheat from Shaoxing, Shaoxing Huangjiu is meticulously crafted. During the brewing process, saccharification and fermentation are incorporated with beneficial microorganisms found in Chinese yeast and wheat koji. These microorganisms give the wine its unique complexity.
The Unique Yellow Rice Wine
Another impressive feature of Shaoxing Huangjiu is its amazing array of notes that change per sip or glass. Huangjiu has a bright, yellow, or amber hue but a wide flavor profile combining distinctive notes. Sometimes it emits sweetness, at times sourness, maybe bitterness, spice, or a lasting freshness. This creates a well-balanced drink with a pleasant finish.
Finally, it would be interesting to see how this yellow rice wine performs in a blind-tasting competition. Each judge would undoubtedly rate distinct spirits.
