The traditional brewing process for Shanxi mature vinegar is fascinating to watch. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Shanxi mature vinegar is the first of the four famous vinegars in China, with its brewing technique having originated from the Western Zhou Dynasty (c.11th century-771 BC).

According to historical records, in the early Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), the Meiheju vinegar workshop in the city of Taiyuan in North China's Shanxi took the province's mature vinegar brewing process to a new level. 

Meiheju is a traditional household name for lovers of Shanxi mature vinegar. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

After more than 600 years of tradition and development, a complete Shanxi mature vinegar brewing process -- combining modern science and craft skills -- had been formed. 

The production process for Shanxi mature vinegar not only employs a classic formula of ingredients, but is reputedly also a unique process. For example, complex techniques are adopted, such as "liquid fermentation of low-temperature mash" and "exposure in summer, de-icing in winter and aging". 

Shanxi mature vinegar, as a result of the Yellow River farming culture, is regarded as an important part of Shanxi's culture and is also an important and highly respected product to help spread Chinese culture.