Shuiminglou
Time-Honored BrandShuiminglou · Jiangsu · Founded
Shuiminglou, a renowned Chinese rice wine brand from Rugao, Jiangsu, traces its heritage to the Qing Dynasty. Named after a poetic verse and a historic garden pavilion, it embodies the refined culture of Jiangnan's water towns. Crafted from premium glutinous rice and local water, its wines are celebrated for their mellow, lingering flavor.
Brand Story
Shuiminglou, nestled in Rugao, Jiangsu, takes its name from a line in Song Dynasty poet Wang Guan's 'Bu Suan Zi'—'Water is the horizontal wave of the eye, mountains are the gathering of the brows'—and from the famed Ming Dynasty Shuiming Pavilion in the historic Shuihui Garden. Rugao's brewing history dates to the Tang Dynasty (618-907), and by the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), a distinctive craft had emerged. Though the brand's exact founding year is unrecorded, it leveraged the region's watery landscape to produce huangjiu (yellow rice wine) from quality glutinous rice and local springs, gradually becoming a local treasure. Key figure Mao Xiang (1611-1693), a Qing scholar, and his consort Dong Xiaowan often savored wine and poetry in Shuihui Garden, spreading the culture. Shuiminglou wines are known for 'ancient brewing methods, rich and lingering taste,' reflecting the elegance and craftsmanship of Jiangnan—a vital symbol of Rugao's culinary heritage.
“Shuiminglou, the intoxicating beauty of a water town.”
Signature Products
Made from glutinous rice through traditional brewing, this yellow rice wine is mellow and sweet, ideal with meals or warmed. (50-200 RMB)
Aged for years in cellars, this wine boasts a rich aroma and long finish, perfect as a premium gift. (200-500 RMB)
Infused with osmanthus flowers, this clear wine blends floral and wine notes, favored by women. (80-150 RMB)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Jiangsu（江苏）
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Cultural Note
Shuiminglou's brewing follows ancient techniques: soaking rice, steaming, fermenting in vats, pressing, and heating the wine, with meticulous attention to season and temperature. Its culture blends Rugao's poetry, gardens, and cuisine, embodying the aesthetic of Jiangnan literati.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a "China Time-Honored Brand" (中华老字号)?
A China Time-Honored Brand is a designation by China’s Ministry of Commerce for brands with a long history that inherit products, craftsmanship or services across generations and have operated continuously to the present.
When was Shuiminglou founded?
Shuiminglou was founded in null, originating in Jiangsu, Jiangsu, primarily in the Liquor & Spirits field.
What is the signature product of Shuiminglou?
Its signature product is Shuiminglou Huangjiu. See the "Signature / Buy Online" section on this page for more products and shopping links.
Where can I find the official list of China Time-Honored Brands?
You can log into the MOFCOM "China Time-Honored Brand Information Management System", or browse this site’s brand directory — we have profiled 1,451 time-honored brands.
Sources / References
Brand fundamentals (founding year, heritage level, recognition batch) follow official sources such as the MOFCOM time-honored brand list. Story and encyclopedia: