Matsu Distillery (traditional Chinese: 馬祖酒廠; simplified Chinese: 马祖酒厂; pinyin: Mǎzǔ Jiǔchǎng) is a government-owned distillery located in Nangan Township, Lienchiang County (the Matsu Islands), Taiwan. It operates under the supervision of the Taiwan Tobacco and Liquor Corporation (TTL).
Established in 1956, the distillery was originally built to supply spirits to the military garrison stationed on the islands. It later opened its production to the civilian market. The distillery is best known for producing Matsu Kaoliang Liquor (馬祖高粱酒), a high-proof sorghum-based spirit (gaoliangjiu) that holds a protected geographical indication status within Taiwan.
Key products include:
- Matsu Kaoliang Liquor: Typically bottled at 58% alcohol by volume (ABV), known for its distinct aroma and clear appearance.
- Aged Kaoliang Liquor: Varieties aged for extended periods (e.g., 3, 5, 10, or 20 years) in ceramic jars or oak barrels.
- Tunnel 88 Kaoliang Liquor: A premium line aged inside "Tunnel 88" (八八坑道), a former military tunnel renovated to provide constant temperature and humidity for maturation.
The distillery has become a significant tourist attraction in the Matsu Islands. The Tunnel 88 facility, in particular, serves as both an aging warehouse and a visitor center offering guided tours and tastings.
