Kwai Feh, also known as “Lady Yang Kuei Fei,” holds a fascinating history and meaning. This liqueur is named after a renowned figure from ancient China, Lady Yang Kuei Fei, who was the beloved concubine of Emperor Hsuan Tsung during the T'ang dynasty, which spanned from A.D. 712 to 756.
Lady Yang Kuei Fei was widely revered for her beauty and charm, and she had a particular fondness for fresh lychee fruit. In order to please her, the emperor commanded his guards to transport the lychee fruit all the way from Canton, located in Southern China, to his northern palace, a distance of approximately 600 miles. The guards accomplished this feat by riding fast horses, ensuring that the lychees arrived fresh and in perfect condition for Lady Yang Kuei Fei to enjoy.
This historical background sheds light on the significance of the name “Kwai Feh.” The term “Kwai Feh” is a romanization of the Cantonese pronunciation of the Chinese characters meaning “Lady Yang Kuei Fei.” By adopting this name, the liqueur pays homage to the beauty and elegance of Lady Yang Kuei Fei, as well as the emperor's devotion to her.
Kwai Feh is a liqueur that captures the essence of lychee fruit, reflecting Lady Yang Kuei Fei's love for this particular delicacy. The lychee fruit itself is known for its sweet and fragrant flavor, and Kwai Feh aims to encapsulate these qualities in a bottle. The liqueur is crafted using the finest lychees, carefully selected to ensure the highest quality and flavor.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of experiencing Kwai Feh firsthand. Its aroma is captivating, with notes of ripe lychee filling the air. The taste is luscious and sweet, reminiscent of biting into a perfectly ripened lychee. The smoothness of the liqueur is remarkable, making it an excellent choice for sipping on its own or incorporating into cocktails.
Kwai Feh can be enjoyed in various ways, depending on personal preference. Some may prefer to serve it chilled or over ice, allowing the flavors to be savored slowly. Others may choose to mix it with other spirits or ingredients to create unique and refreshing cocktails. The versatility of Kwai Feh makes it a delightful addition to any home bar or cocktail menu.
Kwai Feh is more than just a liqueur; it is a tribute to the timeless beauty of Lady Yang Kuei Fei and the extravagant lengths the emperor went to in order to fulfill her desires. Its name and flavor profile evoke the elegance and charm of ancient China, allowing us to indulge in the same pleasures that once captivated the emperor and his beloved concubine.