"Surameraai" is a well-known Thai word that refers to all alcoholic beverages. However, few people realize that "Sura" refers to distilled spirit, and "Merai" refers to spirit produced through the fermentation process.

        Fermented liquor is created by fermenting raw materials and adding yeast, which may or may not include sugar. Fermented liquors such as wine from grapes, beer from malts, and sake from rice. Wine is the most popular and has created a unique drinking culture.

        The first evidence of wine making dates back to 6,000 BC in Europe. European wine-producing countries, such as France and Italy, remain the most well-known, but wines from the "New World" outside of Europe, such as Australia, the United States, Chile, and Argentina, are beginning to emerge.

        Wine's flavor varies based on the grape variety, area of origin, fermentation procedure, and period of fermentation. Wine drinkers not only choose wines from their favorite production areas, but they also follow a strict culture of proper serving and storage to preserve a wine's quality and flavor.

Written, translated, and illustrated by: Ratchanok T.