The storage and blending process for strong-aroma Daqu liquor is as follows:
Storage Process
Environmental Requirements: Strong-aroma Daqu liquor requires a dark, constant temperature (5-20°C), dry (relative humidity 70%), well-ventilated, and deodorized environment. Sealing is crucial; the bottle opening is usually sealed with raw rubber tape to prevent spoilage or loss of alcohol content.
Container Selection: Earthenware jars are commonly used for sealed storage. These containers provide a stable environment, helping the components in the liquor to gradually blend and transform.
Age Length: Generally, the optimal drinking period for strong-aroma baijiu is 5 to 8 years of aging, while some high-end liquors, such as Wuliangye, can be up to 7 years.
Blending Process
Selection of Base Liquor and Preparation: Before blending, base liquor must be prepared, and refined liquor and liquors with poor aroma and mixed flavors should be selected according to taste requirements.
Small-Scale Blending: Small-scale tests are conducted to determine the optimal blending ratio between various base liquors and adjust to the ideal taste.
Formal Blending: Based on small-scale trials, scale-up tests are conducted to ensure the consistency and stability of the formula in mass production.
Flavor Addition: Flavorings, such as ethyl hexanoate and ethyl lactate, are added as needed to adjust the aroma and taste of the wine.
