Yellow rice wine and white wine are common alcoholic products in China, and there are significant differences between them in flavor, production technology and raw materials. Although they are all made of grain, the brewing method and flavor have their own characteristics.
First, raw materials and brewing methods
Rice wine: Rice wine is mainly fermented by glutinous rice and rice wine koji. In the production process, glutinous rice is soaked, cooked, added with distiller's yeast and then fermented. This fermentation process usually takes several days to a week. In summer, the fermentation time will be shortened because of the high temperature.
Liquor: The main raw materials of liquor are sorghum, wheat and other grains. It is made by crushing, proportioning, fermentation, distillation, storage and other processes. This process usually takes months or even years. The production technology of liquor is exquisite, and the type and quantity of microorganisms contained in it will affect the flavor of liquor.
Second, the flavor characteristics
Rice wine: Rice wine is sweet and sour, soft and refreshing, and has a long aftertaste. Its alcohol content is low, generally between 8%- 15%, so yellow rice wine is more easily accepted by most people. In addition, rice wine is rich in amino acids and vitamins, which helps digestion and promotes metabolism.
Liquor: Liquor has rich aroma, mellow taste and long aftertaste. Its alcohol content is relatively high, generally between 30% and 60%, so liquor has heavy taste and high alcohol content. Different kinds of liquor have their own unique flavors, such as maotai, strong aroma and faint scent.
Third, the applicable occasions
Rice wine: Rice wine is more suitable for relaxed social occasions or family gatherings, because it has low alcohol content and soft taste, which can promote the harmony of the atmosphere.
Liquor: Liquor is more suitable for formal business occasions or special festivals because it represents a kind of solemnity and respect. Its high alcohol content also means that it is more suitable for dishes with heavy tastes.
Fourth, cultural background.
Rice wine: Rice wine is deeply rooted in the southern culture of China, especially in the southern water towns and Lingnan areas. Residents in these places like to entertain guests with rice wine, or as a drink after meals, and sometimes even as a seasoning for cooking. Rice wine plays an important role in the culture of these places.
Liquor: Liquor is more closely related to the northern culture of China. The north is the grain-producing area in China, and the main raw materials of liquor such as sorghum and wheat are easier to obtain. Therefore, the brewing technology of liquor has been better developed and inherited here.
Five, personal preferences
Of course, personal preferences for rice wine and liquor will also vary according to personal tastes, living environment and cultural background. Some people may prefer the sweetness and softness of rice wine, while others may prefer the richness and mellowness of liquor.
Generally speaking, although yellow rice wine and white wine are both traditional wines in China, they are quite different in raw materials, brewing methods, flavor characteristics, applicable occasions and cultural background. Whether it is wine tasting or drinking, understanding these differences can help us better appreciate these two different types of wine culture.
Nowadays, liquor is an essential drink for entertaining guests or holding banquets. It is best to buy liquor through formal channels, because the quality of liquor is guaranteed.
In Xi High-tech Zone, there is a Maotai-flavor wine experience center authorized by Guizhou Liquor Industry Association, where there are many brands of Maotai-flavor wine, and the quality and quantity of drinks are guaranteed.
Address: Moutai Experience Center in the northwest corner of the intersection of Keji No.2 Road and Bowen Road in Xi High-tech Zone.