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Ancient Chinese alcohol found sealed in a Qin tomb for 2,200 years
Fox News • • world
Key Points:
- Researchers in China discovered a large bronze vessel containing 3.74 liters of a cereal-based alcoholic beverage, preserved for over 2,200 years, in a Qin tomb dating to the Warring States period (475-221 B.C.).
- The drink, similar to a non-distilled beer made primarily from broomcorn millet with wheat and/or barley, was found in exceptional condition with no noticeable odor and a clear light blue-green color.
- Analytical techniques including organic chemistry and starch grain analysis confirmed the beverage's composition and brewing method, marking one of the largest volumes of ancient alcohol ever recovered from this era.
- Preservation of the liquid is attributed to factors such as the dry environment, the bronze vessel's sealing method, and burial conditions, which researchers plan to investigate further.
- The discovery aims to promote interest in ancient Chinese alcoholic beverages and traditional brewing techniques, complementing previous findings of fermented drinks dating back over 3,000 years in China.
