Among the world's three major ancient fermented wines -- yellow rice wine, beer, and wine -- yellow rice wine is the only one to originate in China.  

Jimo laojiu ("laojiu" is another name for yellow rice wine in many parts of China) is a semi-sweet wine whose history can be traced back 4,000 years. It is made from millet, fermented wheat, and mineral water from Laoshan Mountain. Ancient techniques are used in its production process.

In 2013, the traditional brewing techniques of Jimo laojiu were listed as a provincial-level intangible cultural heritage item in Shandong.

Workers mash millet to produce wine at the Jimo Yellow Wine Factory in Qingdao. [Photo/sdnews.com.cn]

Fermentation is an important part of the Jimo laojiu production process. [Photo/sdnews.com.cn]

People make Jimo laojiu using traditional techniques.[Photo/sdnews.com.cn]

Jimo laojiu is a time-honored brand. [Photo/sdnews.com.cn]

The Jimo Laojiu Museum, built by the Jimo Yellow Wine Factory [Photo/sdnews.com.cn]