Ming River Sichuan Baijiu

As my first baiju, I was unprepared for this experience. The nose was full of fruity aromas, particularly passion fruit. It was sweeter than anticipated, and tasting it revealed a surprisingly almost moldy, cheesy flavor. It was certainly a unique experience, and the first sip was enjoyable, but subsequent sips brought hesitation. Nevertheless, I would try it again, as I suspect this type of spirit gains favor with time.

A complex Chinese spirit from Luzhou Laojiao Distillery, made from sorghum fermented in pits and distilled in traditional pot stills, aged for up to two years. It offers tropical fruit notes like green apple peel, papaya, and melon, with a spicy character of peppercorn, pineapple, and anise, finishing with earthy forest floor and barnyard notes. December 2019.

Intense blueberry and pepper on the nose. The palate is sweet, with pleasant, unusual acidity and notes of blueberries, licorice, and green apple. Intense licorice on the finish, reminiscent of eating a handful of licorice allsorts! A very enjoyable spirit with great potential for sipping or mixing.

Nose: Perfume, raspberry, lavender, watermelon, fruit Palate: Fruity - reminiscent of fruity soap; hints of burnt rubber or a pink eraser; permanent marker Finish: Burning, permanent marker, ink, spray paint

It exceeded my expectations. The nose has apple, pineapple, and passion fruit. The taste includes melon, pineapple, some funk, and a hint of wet farm. It was better than anticipated.

A fascinating Chinese baijiu. Handmade or what is referred to as artisanal liquor. It begins with a sweet, earthy sensation and concludes with a distinct pineapple flavor. Truly enjoyable.