A Celebration Spirit
Kweichow Moutai (茅台酒) is one of China’s most famous and prestigious baijiu (白酒), a category of traditional Chinese distilled spirits. It is often associated with luxury, tradition, and national pride, frequently used in state banquets and special occasions.
Kweichow Moutai is produced in the town of Maotai, located in Guizhou Province, China. The unique climate and water of this region are said to be key factors in the production process.
Moutai has been made for centuries, dating back to the Qing Dynasty, and gained prominence during the 20th century. It was famously served during diplomatic events, such as when Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai offered it to U.S. President Richard Nixon during his visit to China in 1972.
Moutai is regarded as the “National Liquor of China” and is deeply ingrained in Chinese political, business, and social culture.
Display of KweiChow Moutai Spirits during The Ladies Cue party
The Ladies Cue 5th Anniversary Celebration
On October 25, 2024, The Ladies Cue marked their 5th anniversary in grand style, with Moutai as one of the evening’s key sponsors. Guests enjoyed an exclusive experience with free-flow Moutai throughout the night. Shelves were lined with bottles of this premium spirit, all available to be shared among the invited guests. The presence of Moutai added an air of elegance and prestige, elevating the celebration to new heights.
2. 15, 10 and 5 years old Moutai
We felt incredibly privileged to have the opportunity to savour premium Moutai from the exclusive 5-, 10-, and 15-year series. Much like fine wine, Moutai evolves with age, becoming smoother and more refined over time. Each bottle offered a unique tasting experience, with distinct sets of notes and flavours that unfolded gracefully with each sip.
Since we are able to drink throughout the night, we would like to share the differences between these three bottles, in case you are interested in any to try.
5 years Moutai
A relatively young Moutai, it tends to have a more intense, raw flavour with noticeable alcohol sharpness. The main flavours are more direct, with clear notes of fermented soy, nuttiness, and light fruity undertones. Sharp and bold, with a stronger ethanol scent. The aromas are more straightforward and less layered compared to older Moutai. It has a robust, fiery mouthfeel with a lingering burn, which is typical of younger spirits.
Price ranges between SGD500 – SGD700 per bottle in Singapore.
10 years Moutai
Smoother and more balanced than the 5-year, with a mellow sweetness that tempers the initial sharpness. The flavours are deeper and more rounded, with increased nutty and umami notes and hints of fruitiness, pineapple mainly. The ethanol scent is less prominent, allowing the characteristic aromas of Moutai (fermented grains, nuts, light fruit) to come through more clearly. Less burn and more refined as compared to the 5 years Moutai. This is actually our favourite among the three bottles.
Prices can go equal to or more than SGD1000 per bottle in Singapore
15 years Moutai
Exceptionally smooth, with well-integrated flavours and minimal alcohol harshness. The ageing process imparts a rich, layered complexity, with pronounced notes of dried fruit, toasted nuts and soy sauce. Deep and complex, with the alcohol almost entirely integrated, allowing rich aromas of nuts, fruit, and fermentation to shine. Hints of chocolate, wood, and floral undertones may also be present.
Prices cost more than SGD3300 per bottle in Singapore
Highball with Moutai
Moutai is traditionally seen as a spirit favoured for business occasions, embodying an image of formality and prestige. However, Chef Benson from Sorghum.sg, in collaboration with Moutai China, introduced a refreshing twist to the event by creating a highball cocktail using Moutai. This inventive cocktail was well-received, especially by the younger guests and those who preferred a lighter drink rather than consuming Moutai neat due to its high alcohol content. The cocktail offered a fresh and approachable way to enjoy Moutai, appealing to a broader audience and showcasing the spirit’s versatility.
Chef Benson and 15 years Moutai
Throughout the evening, guests had the unique opportunity to enjoy free-flowing Moutai, courtesy of the event’s generous sponsorship. In addition, Moutai provided an exclusive 15-year-aged bottle, valued at SGD 3,300, as the grand prize for the lucky draw. This exceptional bottle added extra excitement to the night, offering one lucky winner the chance to bring home a piece of Moutai’s prestigious legacy and craftsmanship.
Chef Benson and the winner, Juliana and her husband
The couple who won the first prize of a 15-year-aged Moutai presented by Chef Benson, were thrilled to take home this rare and prestigious spirit. Known for its smoothness, rich depth, and complex flavours, the 15-year Moutai is a highly sought-after prize among collectors and enthusiasts. The win marked a memorable moment for the couple, as they celebrated the achievement with fellow guests, enjoying the prestige of a prize that symbolises elegance and fine taste. The bottle itself not only represents a significant value but also a deep connection to Chinese heritage and tradition, making it a meaningful and cherished addition to their collections.
More about them
Moutai prices have been on the rise due to demand and if you want to learn more or even consider purchasing them, you can visit the following social media platforms:
Chef Benson: https://instagram.com/benshengtong
Sorghum: https://instagram.com/sorghum.sg
Moutai: https://instagram.com/moutai_china
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