Fenjiu Lantern Festival Banquet hosted by Cheng International showcased the best of Baijiu in London
On the evening of 11 February 2025, Cheng International, on behalf of Fenjiu International, hosted the “Fenjiu Lantern Festival Banquet” in collaboration with House of Ming at St. James’ Court, A Taj Hotel in London.
A total of 60 esteemed attendees from China and the UK gathered to celebrate at the banquet. Guests included key figures from China’s aviation industry, Harrods, Dior, Bulgari Hotel, Cartier, and 1 Hotel Mayfair. Guests at the dinner offered high praise. They commended the event for deepening the cultural exchange between Chinese and British cultures and extending opportunities for future collaborations.
The highlight of the evening was two exclusive Year of the Snake Fenjiu cocktails. They were crafted by Cheng International to encapsulate both tradition and modernity. “Bamboo Garden” celebrated the crisp and refreshing notes of Zhu Ye Qing Jiu (Bamboo) 45%. Meanwhile, “Peach Garden” infused the rich aroma of Fenjiu 48% with the delicate sweetness of peach. These two signature cocktails not only paid tribute to the brand’s profound heritage but also embraced innovative interpretations that align with global cocktail mixology trends. They both showcase the boundless potential of Chinese baijiu in the international market.
The banquet took place at House of Ming, a restaurant renowned for its Ming Dynasty-inspired aesthetics. Blending an elegant ambience with a meticulously curated gourmet experience. Signature dishes such as golden garlic scallops and chilli oysters Dover sole were served. These combined the essence of traditional Cantonese and Sichuan culinary craftsmanship with locally sourced London ingredients and flavours. These exquisite creations perfectly embodied the fusion of Chinese and British gastronomy. Especially when paired with the two Year of the Snake Fenjiu cocktails. This culinary feast not only showcased the deep integration and innovative evolution of both food cultures but also further advanced the crossover collaboration between Chinese baijiu and Western fine dining.
The banquet fully demonstrated Cheng International’s dynamic. Creativity in promoting the exchange and integration of Chinese and British culinary cultures as well as its strategic continuity in collaborating with high-end restaurants and bars in the UK. It set a benchmark for the global expansion of Chinese baijiu.
Ms. Zarina Guan, founder and chairwoman of Cheng International, emphasised that “2025 presents new opportunities and prospects for Chinese baijiu to expand globally.” She explained that the Fenjiu Lantern Festival Banquet aimed to showcase Fenjiu’s “innovation beyond individual products, striving to integrate diverse fields and to establish a multidimensional baijiu brand and cultural matrix.”
The success of the “Fenjiu Lantern Festival Banquet” marks a significant step forward in the global innovation of Chinese baijiu. It also carries a profound mission of promoting Chinese culture on an international scale. From the poetic indulgence of fine liquor in the flourishing Tang Dynasty to today’s modern innovations, baijiu has transcended its role as a mere beverage, becoming a convergence of Eastern aesthetics, traditional craftsmanship, and contemporary taste.
Looking ahead, Cheng International and Fenjiu International will continue to use Fenjiu as a cultural ambassador to expand international collaborations. By forging new bridges of collaborations transcending current cultural practices, they aim to elevate the presence of Chinese baijiu on the international stage, allowing its rich heritage and modern evolution to shine even brighter.
If you liked this article why not read: An Evening of Fenjiu Baijiu Cocktails at China Tang
