Wine is considered sacred in Amis culture and was only served in Masarut in the past.

Announcer :Mrs. Yang MengYun

Social classifications of Amis culture can be distinguished through observing appropriate manners of wine tasting. Young Amis, bagalannai(the bottom of the social classes), are required to demonstrate respects and obedience to the tribal elderly. Especially when the elderly gesture their desire for wine, you Amis must serve the wine with fully respects.

In general, Amis people prepare Masarut a week ahead. Because wine making process is very sacred, participants are required to focus on purifying body and mind with a worshiper’s attitude. During wine making, only females are allowed. Fermented glutinous rice is used in Amis wine making. First, clean and cook the glutinous rice. Next, add the cooled rice to the traditional rice malt (cooked with 12 variety of herbs). Start the fermenting process within 12 hours. Fermented wine is available for males only during festivals of sacrifices.

In modern days, wine is widely available to general public and no longer serves a sacred purpose. In addition, alcohol abuse has made a bad impression of Taiwan’s aboriginals and a poor example for aboriginal children. After all, wine and betel nuts are important for festivals of sacrifices.