Beyond Moutai x Luckin: Unconventional Collabs to Try
You might have already tried Luckin Coffee's boozy lattes, and if you're a fan, you'll know they're never shy about surprising their dedicated coffee enthusiasts. Their unconventional collaboration with Moutai, the Guizhou-based producers of the renowned baijiu brand, have sparked a range of other unusual flavor combinations. So, inspired by this trend, we've put together a list of some of the most unexpected partnerships shaking up the food scene recently.
Moutai & Luckin Coffee
We, of course, have to start with the collab that started it all. This combo has been a bit of a Marmite situation — people either really dig it or really aren't on board. The taste profile is a smoky blend of Moutai's distinct flavor and rich coffee, creating an intriguing balance that doesn't overpower the coffee's character. But, for some, it comes off as a little too reminiscent of boozy chocolates.
Häagen-Dazs & Shui Jing Fang
In the world of viral trends, where one brand goes, others are sure to follow to catch the wave. Häagen-Dazs is no exception and has teamed up with Shui Jing Fang, a well-known Sichuan baijiu brand. Together, they've whipped up milk, strawberry, and Hawaiian-flavored ice creams, each with a twist - a splash of baijiu. This means you can enjoy your favorite ice cream while also getting a taste of a classic Chinese spirit.
ChaBaidao & Meijian
Continuing on the trend of unexpected pairings, ChaBaidao, a Chengdu tea brand on a mission to make Chinese tea the beverage of choice among the younger demographic, has joined forces with Meijian, a brand recognized for their green plum wine. The result? A plum-packed beverage with a delicate hint of plum wine that creates a pleasant surprise. The tea component adds a balancing act to the mix, toning down the alcohol and allowing the sweet-tart plum notes to shine. If you're on the lookout for an alcohol-spiked tea, this offering should be on your radar.
KFC & 大窑 Dà yáo
KFC, a brand known for its collaborations with nostalgic household names, has once again caught our attention by partnering with 大窑 Dà yáo. Launched in 1995, Da yao is a cherished brand that offers carbonated beverages brimming with citrus flavors. It's a childhood favorite among Beijingers, often hailed as a must-have accompaniment to the lunch spread, right alongside baijiu and beer. Together, they've brought to the table a citrus-infused sundae, a delightful treat that's sure to give Beijingers a trip down memory lane.
TAIJI & Bright Dairy
In the realm of bizarre collaborations, you'd arguably find none stranger than medicine and ice cream. However, TAIJI, a respected medicine brand, has defied the odds and partnered with Bright Dairy to launch an ice cream flavor infused with 藿香正气 huòxiāngzhèngqì. For those not in the know, huoxiangzhengqi is a traditional Chinese medicine known for its heat stroke prevention properties. If you're adventurous enough to embrace the herbal notes within a creamy ice cream bar, this might just be a quirky yet effective way to keep heat stroke at bay.
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Images: Siyu, Wangtian, courtesy of the venues