LOCAL LIQUOR
» Kaoliang
Hailed as the national drink of Taiwan,
Kaoliang is made from fermenting sorghum. It is said to have originated from Dazhigu, China during the Ming Dynasty. The clear spirit ranges from 38% to 92% ABV, with
the 58 Kinmen Kaoliang (58% as indicated by its name) being the most popular. Fruity and full of punch, this complex spirit pairs easily with stir-fries and hotpot. Usually enjoyed cold for its floral aromas, older folks tend to consume it warm during winter months. Try: Now I know what you mean from RON Xinyi » Shaoxing wine
A type of huangjiu (yellow wine) made from fermenting glutinous rice with qu, a starter cake of mashed grains that cultivate yeast. It gets its name from its place of origin, Shaoxing, Zhejiang province. Commonly used in Chinese cooking, it has also been enjoyed as a beverage for its qi (energy flow) balancing properties. Varieties include
Yuanhong, Jiafan, Shanniang and Xianxue, in increasing level of sugar content and they can also be aged. Try: Coffee Shao from ZIGA ZAGA » Millet wine
While colloquially known as mijiu in major cities of Taiwan (and the rest of the world), it is also known as
qohozi or tinuerau, depending on the Taiwanese aboriginal tribe. Made simply of fermented steamed millet, brewer’s yeast and cold water, the flavour profile varies between tribes and brands and can range between 12% and 20% ABV. The subtly sweet, clear wine is often drunk during the tribes’ celebrations – harvest festivals, birth or weddings – or when presenting offerings to their deities. Try: Ma La Sun Liquor » Whisky
Taiwan shares the same fervour for whiskies like the Japanese; it’s one of the world’s largest single malt markets. Kavalan (from Yilan Country) and Omar (under Nantou Distillery in Nantou Hsien) have been making waves in the Scotch-dominated market, thanks to the approachable flavour profiles that please both connoisseurs and the uninitiated. Standard offerings can be purchased with ease, while special editions can be found in mom-and-pop liquor stores across Taiwan. Try: Omar Sherry Cask Single Malt Whisky