Have you ever smelled the intoxicating aroma of centuries-old brewing? Welcome to the Shui Jing Fang Site in Chengdu. Right here before you lies a place of incredible historical significance. This isn’t just any museum. It’s a living testament to China’s rich brewing heritage. The Shui Jing Fang Site is the oldest distillery in the world still in operation.
Imagine stepping back in time to 1998. Workers renovating the Quanxing distillery stumbled upon something extraordinary. Buried beneath the ground lay the ruins of a 15th-century distillery. Archaeologists unearthed ancient distillation hearths and fermentation pits. From these pits scientists isolated ancient bacteria. This remarkable discovery formed the basis for a new premium baijiu. The Shui Jing Fang brand was born in 2000. The name means ‘water-mirror workshop’ a fitting name for a place that reflects centuries of history.
The Shui Jing Fang Site is more than just ruins. It’s a 2000 square meter complex. The layout follows a traditional pattern: stores in the front and the distillery in the back. Countless cultural relics have been found here. It’s a museum showcasing ancient winemaking tools and techniques. But it’s also a fully functioning distillery. You can witness the traditional brewing process firsthand. The production of Shui Jing Fang liquor continues using time-honored methods.
This is a unique ‘living museum’. A place where history is not just displayed but actively experienced. After learning about the brewing process you’ll have the chance to sample Shui Jing Fang. Compare its unique flavor profile to other famous spirits like vodka gin whiskey or cognac. You’ll discover the subtle nuances that make this baijiu so special. The Shui Jing Fang Site isn’t simply a place to visit it’s a journey through time a taste of history a true cultural immersion. A fascinating place that unveils China’s rich and enduring tradition of baijiu making.