To brew that perfect strong aroma Baijiu, what has the world done for us?
Luzhou, The Baijiu City of China
Located at the junction of Sichuan, Yunnan, Guizhou and Chongqing where the four seasons are distinct and the climate is moderate, Luzhou has the most suitable warmth and moisture; two important elements in Baijiu brewing. Luzhou is one of the three cores of China Baijiu’s Golden Triangle (Luzhou, Yibin & Renhuai).
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations had praised Luzhou after inspecting it:
“Located at 28° North latitude along the banks of Yangtze River, Luzhou is most suitable for brewing high-quality Baijiu”.
Chinese and foreign experts concluded that the unrepeatability of Luzhou’s unique geology, climate, soil water resource, raw materials, microorganisms and brewing techniques are what makes it possible for Luzhou Laojiao to produce such legendary quality Baijiu.
"Without exceptional geographical environment consisting of the water, soil, air and microorganisms in Luzhou, there will be no Luzhou Laojiao".
Humidity：
Luzhou’s abundant annual rainfall and humid air all the year round thanks to its location in a river valley and among mountains foster favourable air humidity for the growth of Baijiu making microbes.
Sunlight：
Luzhou has abundant annual rainfall, and lies in the river valley and among mountains. It’s good for the growth of the microbes.
Temperature:
Luzhou has a subtropical humid climate. It has high temperature, ample sunshine and four seasons, which are all good for the growth of microorganisms and making the best Baijiu under such a suitable temperature.
Wind speed
Located at the southern margin of Sichuan basin, Luzhou is protected by the Tibet plateau, Qinba ridge and Yunnan-Guizhou plateau. There has few strong wind throughout the year. Here is the region with the smallest wind speed among the country’s Baijiu making areas.
Altitude
The Baijiu producing areas in Luzhou are mostly situated at the Southern hilly regions of Sichuan basin. With 200 to 700 metres above the sea level, the altitude is conducive for the growth of wine making microorganisms as well as glutinous red sorghum for the production of Baijiu.
Soil
Luzhou is located in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River. The “Purple soil” is Jurassic and Cretaceous with rich nutrients and moderate PH value. The hills and river beaches have good water retention which is good for growing sorghum, wheat and other crops which are essential in the production of Baijiu. The purple soil can also purify the water from Yangtze River thru layers of filtering for Baijiu brewing.