About

 

Our Heritage

Pearl Red’s legacy harks back to 9,000 years ago in Jiahu, within the Central Plains of ancient China, where the world’s oldest wine was discovered. This region, heralded as the cradle of Han culture, epitomizes the pure essence of Chinese civilization, free from external influences. The Han culture's rich traditions would travel through time and space with the Hakka people, who migrated from the Central Plains to the south during times of war. Settling in Meizhou, Guangdong, they established what is today recognized as the global capital for Hakka culture.

 

The Art of Brewing

In Meizhou, the authentic Han cultural practices, especially the traditional rice liquor brewing techniques, have been scrupulously preserved. Though not directly descended from the brewing traditions of Jiahu, these methods have evolved from the broader Han brewing practices and have been handed down through generations within the Hakka community. Pearl Red Winery and Distillery, reestablished in 1950 post-World War II, embodies this legacy by amalgamating over 20 family-owned distilleries committed to preserving these historic brewing techniques and propelling them into the future.

 

The Legacy of Pearl Red

The name "Pearl Red" was first immortalized by the Tang Dynasty (618 to 907) poet Li He in his poem “Jiang Jin Jiu.” He beautifully describes "a rich amber liquor, trickling drop by drop from a tiny wooden vat, each gleaming red like pearls, into a bell-shaped glass goblet" portraying Pearl Red wine as a luxurious and rare beverage of its time. This representation was further affirmed in the "Poetry Talks Collection" compiled by Song Dynasty (960 to 1279) lyricist Ruan Yue. In its 49th chapter under the food and drink section, Ruan Yue elaborates on the prestige of various wines, specifically mentioning the 'pearl red' as an exemplar of esteemed wines, known for its unique color and quality across Guangdong and Fujian Province.

By the Ming Dynasty (1368 to 1644), particularly during the Jiajing period, Pearl Red had ascended to the esteemed status of a royal tribute wine. Historical records, such as the "Memorandum of Thanks for the Gift of New Year's Eve Wine," detail how on the eve of the fourteenth year of Jiajing, Emperor Jiajing bestowed two bottles of "Pearl Red" wine upon Xia Yan, the Minister of Rites, showcasing its venerated status and ceremonial significance during royal occasions.

 

Modern Innovations

Today, Pearl Red has evolved into a modern and international corporation, producing an array of rice-based liquors including Rice Wine, Rice Spirit, Rice Whisky, and Rice Liqueur. Our products, which celebrate the richness of our heritage, are now exported to over ten countries. In 2019, we constructed a world-class distillery in Xing Ning, Meizhou, situated amidst the serene Huangfengwo Tea Estate. This location, with its pristine air and water, is ideal for crafting the finest liquors.

 

Our Vision

Pearl Red is eager to share our authentic and premium rice liquors with the world. Each bottle is a reflection of our deep history, a story of migration, culture, and the unyielding pursuit of excellence. Join us in experiencing the true spirit of Hakka culture, preserved and poured from our distillery to your glass.