Ancient 2,200-Year-Old Grain Alcohol Discovered Intact in Bronze Vessel
Archaeologists in China have uncovered a sealed bronze bottle containing about 3.74 liters of a well-preserved cereal-based alcoholic drink dating to the Warring States period.
In a tomb belonging to the Qin state, excavators recovered a bronze container holding roughly 3,740 milliliters of an ancient fermented drink. The tomb, located in the Shanjiabao cemetery of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, dates to the Warring States era (475-221 B.C.). Laboratory tests showed the beverage was brewed primarily from broomcorn millet, supplemented by wheat or barley, and contained characteristic lactic and oxalic acids.
The liquid appeared clear with a faint blue-green hue and little odor, indicating exceptional preservation. Scientists suggest the dry environment, the metal vessel, and its sealing contributed to the liquid’s survival. The team hopes the find will spur further research into early Chinese brewing practices.
Why it matters
The well-preserved drink offers rare insight into ancient Chinese brewing techniques and dietary habits.
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