Sanhuajiu
(Sanhua, Guilin Sanhua, 三花酒, Sānhuājiǔ, Sanhua Liquor)
Sanhuajiu is a high-end variety of rice baijiu that hails from Guilin, China. It is made with steamed rice, a starter, and water sourced from the Li River. The starter consists of medicinal herbs, which give the drink subtle herbal notes.
The combination is distilled and results in a clear and colorless spirit, with mellow herbaceous aromas and a sweet aftertaste. This prized spirit probably originated during the Song Dynasty, and its high quality is a result of pristine river water, high-quality rice, and a suitable climate.
The liquor is sometimes aged in clay pots that are stored in cool Guilin caves, allowing the drink to soften and develop characteristic aromas. The name sanhua literally translates to three flowers. The term supposedly stems from the tradition of brewing the base three times.
Sanhuajiu is usually served neat and can be a good food accompaniment.
