This photo taken on December 10, 2024 shows residents purchasing winter-brewed wine at a time-honoured store in Suzhou. (CFP)

Winter-brewed wine is a unique local rice wine only available for a few days leading up to the Winter Solstice each year. It is known for its refreshing taste, with a gentle sparkle on the tongue.

In Suzhou, there is a long-standing tradition of celebrating the Winter Solstice as a mini New Year. Customers can bring their own containers from home to fill with wine or purchase specially designed jugs from the store.

This photo taken on December 10, 2024 shows residents purchasing winter-brewed wine at a time-honoured store in Suzhou. (CFP)

This photo taken on December 10, 2024 shows residents purchasing winter-brewed wine at a time-honoured store in Suzhou. (CFP)

This photo taken on December 10, 2024 shows residents purchasing winter-brewed wine at a time-honoured store in Suzhou. (CFP)

This photo taken on December 10, 2024 shows residents purchasing winter-brewed wine at a time-honoured store in Suzhou. (CFP)