Sanxun Competition Showcases Innovation in Chinese Tea Wine

Industry Insights from Next Move Strategy Consulting

In a celebration of cultural creativity and modern craftsmanship, the inaugural Sanxun Chinese Cocktail Competition concluded in Beijing, spotlighting Sanxun Tea Wine as the foundation for a new era of Chinese cocktail artistry. Over two days, 23 of China’s top bartenders competed to craft innovative beverages rooted in tradition yet designed for a global palate — marking a defining moment in the evolution of Chinese mixology.

A Cultural Fusion of Heritage and Modern Artistry

More than a competition, the event served as a cultural showcase blending music, art, and beverage innovation. Traditional Chinese instruments — guzheng, erhu, and pipa — set a refined tone for the proceedings, while competitors dressed in classic attire presented cocktails inspired by China’s tea heritage. Each creation was served in Chinese vessels such as tea cups and accented with culturally inspired garnishes, bringing to life Sanxun’s guiding philosophy: Modern Chinese Tea in a Glass.

The event culminated in a vibrant celebration, as guests enjoyed Sanxun Tea Wine Highballs at an afterparty that symbolized the seamless fusion of heritage and modernity.

Expert Panel and Distinguished Winners

The judging panel featured three luminaries of the Asian cocktail scene:

• Paul Zhang (China): APAC Brand Ambassador for Sanxun, recognized for pioneering Chinese cocktail culture internationally.

• Agung Prabowo (Indonesia): Co-founder of The Old Man and Penicillin, celebrated for creativity and sustainability in mixology.

• Match Chan (Hong Kong): Renowned for directing programs at leading luxury venues and co-founding iconic bar concepts across China.

Five awards were presented — Grand Champion, Best Flavor, Best Presentation, Best Culture, and the Sanxun Special Award — recognizing mastery in storytelling, technique, and cultural expression.

The Grand Champion title was awarded to Ryan from SanYou Bar, Guangzhou, for his cocktail Life Veins. Crafted from rice, plums, osmanthus, mulberries, and litsea, Life Veins symbolized the interconnectedness of land, life, and heritage — a poetic reflection of China’s evolving mixology landscape.

Sanxun Tea Wine: Defining a New Beverage Category

At the heart of the competition was Sanxun Tea Wine, a low-ABV beverage (10–12%) created through the fermentation of fruit infused with premium Chinese teas. Representing an innovative approach to mindful drinking, Sanxun introduces a new global category — Chinese Tea Wine — combining the balance of tea with the craftsmanship of winemaking.

Available in Oolong & Grapefruit, Jasmine & Green Plum, and Osmanthus & Apple varieties, each expression offers versatility as both a refined ready-to-drink beverage and a cocktail base. Sanxun’s Oolong & Grapefruit flavor earned Gold and Category Winner honors at the 2025 World No & Low Drinks Awards, affirming its leadership in the emerging low-alcohol segment.

Expanding Global Reach and Industry Momentum

Sanxun Tea Wine’s presence now extends to Michelin-starred restaurants and leading bars listed in Asia’s 50 Best Bars, where it is used to craft signature cocktails. Its growing footprint underscores the brand’s dual appeal — refined enough for sophisticated dining experiences, yet approachable for everyday enjoyment.

Next Move Strategy Consulting’s View Point

According to Next Move Strategy Consulting, Sanxun’s pioneering approach reflects a broader trend of cultural beverages gaining traction in the premium low-alcohol market. The fusion of traditional tea craftsmanship with modern mixology positions Sanxun Tea Wine as both a symbol of China’s evolving beverage innovation and a promising category for global expansion.

By bridging the gap between heritage and modern taste, Sanxun is not only redefining how tea is enjoyed — it is shaping the next chapter of China’s contribution to global beverage culture.

Source: EIN Presswire 

Prepared by: Next Move Strategy Consulting