Plum wine, also known as umeshu in Japan, is a traditional drink enjoyed in many East Asian countries, and it holds a special place in the hearts and cultures of people in those regions.
Meijian is a brand dedicated to bringing the authentic taste of Chinese plum wine to the world. Unlike some that lean heavily on modern fusions or simply try to recreate old trends, Meijian focuses on delivering a natural and authentic flavor profile.
Meijian is committed to using high-quality, natural ingredients to create a plum wine experience that is both traditional and appealing to a modern audience. Let’s explore what makes Meijian unique and how it’s revitalizing Chinese plum wine for a new generation.
The Brand Story and Philosophy of Meijian
Meijian’s goal is to bring back traditional Chinese wine and make it relevant again. But it’s not just about copying the past. It’s about creating something that tastes authentic and delicious.
Meijian wants to connect with people who value real cultural experiences and appreciate the work that goes into making quality wine.
Emphasis on Natural and Authentic Flavors
Meijian is serious about using only the best, natural ingredients. They avoid artificial additives and want the true flavor of the plums to shine through.
The goal is to create a taste that’s unique to Meijian, setting it apart from other wines. They aim for a perfect mix of sweet, tart, and savory flavors in every bottle.
The “Four Laws of Ingenuity”: Meijian’s Product Development Process
Meijian’s success isn’t accidental; it’s built on a meticulous product development process they call the “Four Laws of Ingenuity.” Here’s a breakdown:
First Law: Rigorous Green Plum Selection
Meijian doesn’t just grab any plum. They start by selecting from over 100 different green plum varieties, ensuring only the highest quality plums make the cut. Their selection process is incredibly detailed, considering size, ripeness, and even the aroma of the plums. They’re particularly interested in specific plum varieties known for their unique and desirable flavor profiles.
Second Law: Extensive Flavor Testing
Flavor is paramount, and Meijian takes it seriously. They’ve conducted over 1,700 flavor tests, experimenting with different combinations of plums, base liquors, and various aging techniques. This relentless pursuit of the perfect flavor profile is all about achieving the ideal balance and complexity in their plum wine. It’s a constant process of improvement and innovation.
Third Law: Strict Harvesting System
Harvesting isn’t an afterthought; it’s a critical part of the process. Meijian employs a carefully managed harvesting system to ensure optimal ripeness and quality. They aim for 90% of the picked plums to be fully mature. The harvest is timed to coincide perfectly with the peak of plum flavor development. Experienced harvesters are essential, hand-selecting only the very best plums.
Fourth Law: High-Quality Base Liquor and Aging
The foundation of Meijian plum wine is handmade single sorghum baijiu, providing a unique base for the plum flavors to build upon. Then comes the aging process, which happens in Longchang ancient pottery jars. This traditional method enhances flavor development, creating a distinctive and truly memorable taste.
International Recognition and Market Presence
Meijian has earned international recognition, solidifying its position as a premium spirit on a global scale. Let’s take a look at how they’ve achieved this.
Awards and Accolades
Meijian has won awards such as the Monde Selection Gold and Silver awards. These accolades show the brand’s dedication to quality and excellence in the beverage industry.
Meijian uses these awards in its marketing, building trust with consumers and showing its success on a global stage.
Global Market Expansion
Meijian is sold in more than 20 countries, showing its international appeal and reach.
To maximize sales, Meijian targets different markets with marketing strategies tailored to local tastes and preferences. By customizing their approach, Meijian has been able to successfully expand its presence around the world.
Green Plums and Baijiu: The Secret to Meijian’s Flavor
Meijian’s distinctive flavor profile hinges on two key ingredients: high-quality green plums and single sorghum baijiu. But it’s more than just the ingredients themselves; it’s the specific varieties and the methods used to prepare them that make all the difference.
For example, the green plums aren’t just any plums. Meijian uses specific varieties known for their tartness and subtle sweetness, creating a complex flavor that balances the strong baijiu base. These plums are carefully selected to contribute to Meijian’s unforgettable taste.
The baijiu itself is also special. It’s handmade, using only single sorghum, and distilled using traditional techniques. This meticulous process results in a base liquor with a clean, potent flavor that perfectly complements the green plums. The quality of this base is critical to the final product.
Finally, the aging process takes place in Longchang ancient pottery jars. These aren’t just containers; they’re active participants in the aging process. The unique properties of the pottery allow the Meijian to breathe and mature, imparting subtle flavors and aromas that can’t be achieved with modern materials. The porous nature of the pottery allows for micro-oxidation, softening the harshness of the alcohol and developing a smoother, more complex character.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to drink Meijian plum wine
Meijian plum wine is incredibly versatile! You can enjoy it chilled straight from the bottle, on the rocks for a refreshing experience, or even mixed into cocktails. It pairs beautifully with Asian cuisine, especially spicy dishes, as well as desserts. Experiment and find your favorite way to savor its unique flavor!
What is green plum wine?
Green plum wine, like Meijian, is a type of fruit wine made by infusing unripe green plums in a base liquor, often baijiu or shochu, along with sugar. This process extracts the plum’s unique tartness and subtle sweetness, resulting in a complex and flavorful drink. The aging process further refines the flavors, creating a smooth and enjoyable beverage.
Is plum wine Chinese?
While plum wine is enjoyed in various Asian countries, including Japan (where it’s known as umeshu), China is considered its origin. It has a long and rich history in Chinese culture, dating back centuries. Meijian is a popular and well-regarded brand of Chinese plum wine, known for its quality and authentic taste.
The Bottom Line
Meijian is committed to quality, tradition, and innovation. These core values drive their mission to create exceptional plum wine experiences.
Meijian is growing internationally and achieving greater recognition in the global market. This success suggests further expansion and continued recognition are likely for the company.
Meijian is a leader in the Chinese plum wine category and contributes to the world of fine wines and spirits by making a unique and delicious product.