Wu Liang Ye New Crystal Baijiu (50cl, 52%)

Wu Liang Ye New Crystal is a strong-aroma (nongxiang) baijiu from Yibin in Sichuan, bottled at 52% in a faceted crystal-cut bottle. The name means 'five-grain liquor', and it is made from sorghum, glutinous rice, rice, wheat and corn. The grains are fermented in mud pits of the crypt type, handed down from the Ming dynasty, and the spirit is aged before blending. The nose is pungent and floral, with pineapple, white pepper and fresh apricot. The palate is markedly sweet, with tropical fruit, liquorice and a savoury soy-sauce note. The finish is long, dry and creamy, with dried fruit and yeast. It is traditionally served neat in small cups.