wine making
Truly Wine – Reviving the Soul of Amis Traditional Rice Wine
Located in the Dulan Village of Taitung, Truly Wine (Chuli Niang) is the first tribal brand in Taiwan to obtain a legal brewing license for traditional glutinous rice wine. More than just a distillery, it serves as a creative hub dedicated to reclaiming Amis brewing heritage while infusing it with a modern artisanal spirit.
🌿 Core Feature: The "9-Plant Starter" Soul
The defining characteristic of Truly Wine is its traditional "herbal starter balls" (Jiuqu). The founders, A-Quan and Sasa, consulted tribal elders to recover the ancient recipe, using 9 native Taitung plants (including Big-leaf Indonesian Basil, Persicaria chinensis, and Mugwort) to create the fermentation starter.
Natural Fermentation: The wine is made without any chemical sweeteners or added food alcohol, relying solely on the natural interaction between glutinous rice and the herbal starter.
Ecological Stewardship: They collaborate with local authorities to maintain grasslands using traditional manual methods. This ensures that the native plants required for brewing can grow naturally without the interference of herbicides.
🍷 Taste & Profile: Redefining "Millet Wine" Stereotypes
While many associate indigenous wine with heavy sweetness, Truly Wine produces Glutinous Rice Wine, which offers a flavor profile that surprises many:
The Flavor: It features natural fruit acidity and a refreshing floral/herbal aroma. Many describe it as a sophisticated, boozy version of "Yakult" or a lactic acid drink.
The Mouthfeel: It is smooth, crisp, and not cloyingly sweet, making it an excellent aperitif or a perfect pairing for local Taitung cuisine.
🎨 Brand Aesthetics: Where Tradition Meets Modernity
Visual Identity: Moving away from stereotypical tribal patterns, the packaging uses minimalist calligraphy and earthy tones, reflecting a restrained, high-end craftsmanship.
The Naming: The brand name "Chuli" (出力) means "to give strength" or "cheers" in the Amis language and daily conversation. The English name "Truly Wine" is a homophone of the Amis word, symbolizing a "true and sincere" taste of the land.
Part of Taiwan Digital Fest (TDF), Taiwan’s largest and most iconic digital nomad festival, bringing together global nomads, creators, entrepreneurs, and local communities across Taiwan. Learn more at fest.dna.org.tw.