Melbourne adds another feather to its cap with the opening of the Melbourne Moutai Boutique on Exhibition Street.
Nestled in the lively heart of Melbourne’s Chinatown, this new destination serves to introduce Melburnians to Moutai, a Chinese spirit that commands worldwide reverence yet remains a mystery in Australia.
Introducing Moutai: A 2,000-Year-Old Spirit
The allure of Moutai extends beyond its rich, complex taste. It carries a significant history, tracing back 2,000 years to the Wu Emperor of the Han Dynasty. This celebrated baijiu, a Chinese spirit, originates from the town of Moutai in the Guizhou Province in southwest China.
The traditional craft of Moutai-making spans generations, involving the meticulous selection of premium ingredients, followed by a rigorously controlled fermentation and distillation process. Each bottle of Moutai is a testament to the dedication and patience embedded in its production, with a minimum aging period of five years.
Melbourne Moutai Boutique: A Space to Appreciate Moutai
The boutique store offers a plethora of ways to experience Moutai. Visitors can sit in an intimate, circular space that accommodates 12 guests and mirrors the rippled shape of Moutai bottles. The interior design, led by T-A Square architects, offers tastings, single drinks, cocktails, and even the opportunity for a full masterclass experience.
The masterclass, a ceremony rooted in ancient baijiu rituals, walks guests through the creation of Moutai in 78 thoughtful steps. The Moutai Sommelier leads the journey, taking participants to the very heart of Moutai’s culture and intricate flavours.
Organic, Vegan, and Available for Purchase
Visitors can purchase from Moutai’s product range directly in-store. The popular Moutai Flying Fairy, certified organic and vegan, is available for $518.
Local Collaborations on the Horizon
Collaborations with local Melbourne businesses like Fable Melbourne are in the pipeline. Moutai-infused coffee and gelato collaborations, following successful rollouts in Sydney, are on the way.
Plan Your Visit
The Melbourne Moutai Boutique, which had a soft opening in early July, is officially open seven days a week, from 11:00am to 8:00pm, at 193-195 Exhibition Street, Melbourne. Find out more on their website, moutai.com.au or follow them on Instagram, @moutaiaustralia.