Yiwu: A commodity hub rich in cultural heritage

6. Intangible Cultural Heritage: Yiwu Danxi Wine

Yiwu Danxi Wine is a local specialty with medicinal properties, such as improving digestion and boosting immunity. The traditional brewing technique has been recognized as an intangible cultural heritage of Zhejiang province.

Historical records indicate that Zhu Danxi, one of the four great medical masters of the Jin (1115-1234) and Yuan (1271-1368) dynasties, documented the brewing method and medicinal uses of red yeast rice wine in his book Bencaoyanyibuyi (Supplement to the Compendium of Materia Medica).

Made with water from the local Danxi Stream, glutinous rice, and red yeast, Yiwu's Danxi wine preserves a 700-year-old brewing technique introduced by Zhu Danxi. The process, which begins during the Start of Winter (one of China's 24 Solar Terms), involves handcrafted brewing, natural fermentation, and pressing in the spring. The wine can be consumed or used in cooking and is often given as a gift during festive occasions.