Spirit style
Osmanthus Wine
桂花酒guìhuā jiǔ
The fragrance of autumn
- Category
- Flower-infused liqueur
- Home region
- Across China
Osmanthus wine, 桂花酒 (guìhuā jiǔ), is flavoured with the flowers of sweet osmanthus, which bloom in autumn with an intense, apricot-like fragrance. It is the traditional 'reunion wine' of the Mid-Autumn Festival, drunk while families gather to admire the full moon.
The scent of autumn
Sweet osmanthus blooms in autumn, filling Chinese cities with its fragrance. Its flowers have long been infused into wines and liqueurs, giving them a floral, apricot-like aroma and a gentle sweetness.
A festival drink
Because the flowers bloom at the time of the Mid-Autumn Festival, osmanthus wine is the traditional drink of the season, shared with family while admiring the moon and eating mooncakes. Producers are giving it new life for a young generation, with modern packaging designed around the festival.
How to drink it
Slightly chilled or on ice, with mooncakes and desserts, or in light cocktails.
A flower on the moon
In Chinese legend an osmanthus tree grows on the moon, endlessly cut down by Wu Gang and endlessly growing back. This is one reason osmanthus is so closely tied to the Mid-Autumn Festival and its full moon.
How it is made
Osmanthus wine is made by infusing the fresh or preserved flowers in a rice wine or a spirit, usually with sugar. The result ranges from light, sweet rice-wine styles to stronger infusions. Its colour is pale gold, and its aroma is floral, honeyed and apricot-like.
How to recognise it
Look for 桂花酒 (guìhuā jiǔ) or 桂花陈酒 on the label. Check the strength: commercial versions are usually gentle, while infusions in baijiu can be much stronger.
How to serve
Slightly chilled or on ice, in a small wine glass. Also lovely in a highball with soda and a twist of orange.
Food pairings
- Mooncakes, osmanthus cakes and other Chinese desserts. In Europe, try it with almond biscuits, peaches or a light fruit tart.
Sources
- Xixia Osmanthus Wine — iF Design Award, 2021
- China's liquor industry caters to evolving tastes of younger consumers — China Daily, 2025