Only made in the town of Maotai, Guizhou Province, Maotai liquor has a history of more than 2,000 years. The climate, soil, and water contribute to the unique taste of the drink. During the Qing Dynasty, Maotai became the first Chinese liquor to be produced in large-scale production with an annual output of 170 tons. It first won international fame when winning a gold medal in 1951. Maotai was also named a national liquor in 1951, two years after the founding of People's Republic of China. Since then, Maotai has been used on official occasions in banquets with foreign heads of state and distinguished guests visiting China.