American brewing company Dogfish turned to history for their new brand of beer. The ale comes from a recipe last brewed in China over 9,000 years ago.
The recipe for “Chateau Jiahu” was extracted from traces on ancient cups by molecular archaeologist Patrick McGovern.
The pottery, found in village Jihau in central China during a 1980s dig, had only traces of residue after many millenniums underground. But McGovern was able to isolate key ingredients for the interpretation of the Dogfish brewers: rice, honey, grapes, and a Chinese tree fruit found locally.
The beer pre-dates grape wine in Mesopotamia, the next oldest alcoholic beverage by a few centuries.
This isn’t the first time Dogfish has turned to archaeology for their beer.
Five years ago, McGovern and Dogfish collaborated on Midas Touch, inspired by 2,700 year old ruins from a funeary feast in Turkey and believed to be drank by King Mita, the royal behind the tale.
Chateau Jiahu hits stores later this month.
sir jorge
that's really cool
pacat
Sounds much better then critters in your alcohol. Can't wait to try some
GAM
Here's more information for anyone interested. Dogfish Head has been releasing this annually since 2006. I've had it a few times, and it really is amazing.
http://www.dogfish.com/brews-spirits/the-brews/oc…
pacat
Thanks GAM , Just saved the site
ass
i didn't know they had anti-freeze 9000 years ago
Loudog
Didn't know our ancestors got drunk at 7000 BC. lol.