Luzhi Chuujiu (Pounded Rice Wine)

Luzhi Chuujiu

　　Luzhi Chuujiu is a specialty of Luzhi County in Nujiang Prefecture, Yunnan Province. Also known as Shuijiu (literally “water wine”), it is called “Lengzhi” or “Diezhi” by the Lisu people, and sometimes consumed as a beverage by the Nu people. The Lisu, Nu, and Derung peoples drink Chuujiu together as a gesture of friendship during the traditional “Unity Wine” ceremony.

　　It is also called Shuijiu (literally “water wine”), referred to as “Lengzhi” or “Diezhi” by the Lisu people, and is sometimes drunk as a beverage by the Nu people.

　　Most ethnic groups in the Nujiang region enjoy drinking alcohol, among which Chuujiu is the most popular. To brew Chuujiu, a mixture of corn kernels, teosinte, sorghum, and barnyard grass is steamed together or separately. Once cooled, sweet rice yeast is added, stirred well, and then placed in a large jar sealed with cloth. It is kept near the fireplace to ferment for several days until it is ready. When served, it is scooped into a basin, soaked in lukewarm water, and then filtered through a funnel made of wood, bamboo strips, or rattan using a wooden spoon, resulting in the final Chuujiu.

　　This alcoholic beverage has an alcohol content of 17%–18%. It has a rich, mellow flavor, leaves a subtle sweetness after drinking, and is highly nutritious. Chuujiu quenches thirst, relieves fatigue, and stimulates appetite, making it very popular among all ethnic groups — some even call it the “beer of the valley.” It is also indispensable during festivals and joyous occasions. Many communities include offering Chuujiu as a gift and drinking it to celebrate at events such as engagements, weddings, and births. Moreover, the Lisu, Nu, and Derung peoples also drink Chuujiu during the traditional “Unity Wine” ceremony to express friendship.