Moutai (茅台) is the most famous spirit in China. It is the first choice of government officials and business elites to entertain their distinguished counterparts both foreign and domestic. It is the beverage of choice to celebrate the successful union of partnerships. It is one of China’s official state banquet wines and is therefore presented to all official guests of the state.

In the United States, President Nixon drank it with the Chinese Prime Minister during his visit to China in 1972. Since then it has become a symbol of diplomacy and the friendship between the US and China. Recently President Obama drank it with Chinese President Xi, during his visit to the US in 2013.