Sips of history: how ancient Chinese brewing techniques shaped modern alcohol (opens original article in a new tab)

Ancient Chinese brewing techniques from the Warring States period, including the use of qu, have been studied through a preserved bottle, revealing recipes using millet, wheat, and barley.

• Alcohol has been part of human culture for 10,000 years, with the earliest known alcoholic beverage from Henan province, China.
• A Warring States period bottle containing 24 chemical compounds was discovered, revealing a drink made from broomcorn millet, wheat, and barley.
• Research highlights the use of qu, a mouldy yeast starter, showing advanced brewing techniques in Qin society.