Host Introduction
Hello everyone, my name is Zhang Lu. I was born into a Shaoxing Shangyu family with a long tradition of winemaking. My ancestors had a close friendship with Jin Fangcai, a master brewer and the founder of the Nuerhong brand. I grew up surrounded by the aroma of rice wine. Starting in 2007, it took eight years of effort until 2015 when I finally released the 2008 vintage of traditionally handcrafted raw rice wine. The Shanyin Raw Rice Wine I created has since been introduced to countries like France, Italy, and Germany. My years of dedication to preserving rice wine traditions have also led to invitations to participate in several CCTV documentaries, where I share my story.
In addition to managing our own rice wine brand, my partner and I run a private kitchen specializing in gourmet food and fine wines. Together, we curate exclusive rice wine tasting experiences featuring four distinct varieties, plus a special raw rice wine I craft using traditional handmade methods.
What to Expect
Yellow Wine Banquet, as the name suggests, features a table of dishes where each course incorporates yellow wine as an ingredient, creating a uniquely distinctive flavor profile.
In Shaoxing, where people take daily life seriously, the winter brewing season also marks the start of winter vegetable preparation. From peanuts and aniseed beans to stinky tofu, soy-sauce duck, dried fish, and hairy crabs—all make perfect accompaniments for aged wine. Not to mention how Huangjiu enhances dishes and elevates ingredients, adding rich layers to the cuisine. The ancient flavors of Shaoxing dishes, combined with Huangjiu, create an intoxicating experience even without drinking.
Today, I invite you to my food and wine studio to sample four main varieties of Huangjiu (Chinese rice wine): Yuanhong (semi-dry), Jiafan (dry), Shanniang (semi-sweet), and Xiangxue (sweet wine), plus an additional handcrafted Huangjiu of my own making. In total, five distinct Huangjiu varieties will be paired with seasonal ingredients, while I share knowledge about Huangjiu appreciation with you, hoping you'll gain valuable insights during the tasting experience.
Experience venue
The experience venue is located in a modern apartment on Gaoyou Road in the city center, surrounded by historic villas with a balcony overlooking the lush greenery of the Lilac Garden. At the heart of the living room stands a large chef's table that has hosted numerous food and wine enthusiasts. Throughout the space, you'll find the host's homemade plum wine, rice wine, distilled spirits, and countless bottles of red wine tucked in various corners—a true paradise for gourmet food and fine wines.
Reference menu
Aperitif
Shaoxing Silhouette
Cold plate
Moutai Cognac Hua Diao Shrimp
Boneless Chicken Thigh with Fragrant Grains
Golden caviar with vegetarian chicken
Say one thing and mean another
Crispy sweet and sour lotus root
Hot Plate
Aged Pomelo Sasa Mackerel
Preserved egg with Chinese leek flowers in Ashe cuisine
Braised Dongpo pork with winter chestnuts
Braised duck leg with secret sauce served with hawthorn cake
Stir-fried alpine choy sum
Wine pairings: Yuanhong, Jiafan, Shanniang, and Shanyin original brew
A good pot of soup
Warm and comforting peeled chili chicken
Sweet
Grandma's Longan Glutinous Rice Congee
Note: 1. The above menu is for reference only. The actual menu will be customized based on the number of guests and seasonal ingredients. The host will communicate with you about dietary restrictions and the day's menu after payment.
2. Customized menus at higher prices are available upon request. Please inquire before placing your order.
