Bali Tunnel Introduction
The Bawan Tunnel of Ba-Ban is like opening a door to a hidden treasure of secrets when you enter it. On both sides of the tunnel entrance are numerous wine jars, and above is the large inscription of "Ba-Ban Tunnel." As you step inside, you will find the temperature remains quite cool, between 16 to 19 degrees Celsius, providing a stable environment that ensures the quality of the stored aged wines, making it an excellent wine cellar. The tunnel is primarily constructed of granite and is located just a short distance in front of the Matsu Distillery. Legend has it that the Ba-Ban Tunnel was originally a cave used by residents to hide from pirates. After the military stationed in Matsu, the cave was reinforced, deepened, and turned into a tank tunnel. The tunnel is 200 meters long and can accommodate an entire infantry regiment, with its main exit facing the sea to combat invading enemy forces, and a rear exit leading to the former military airport in Nangan. It was completed in 1974, with construction taking about ten years. The date of its completion coincided with Chiang Kai-shek's 88th birthday, hence the name "Ba-Ban Tunnel." After military governance was lifted, the Matsu Distillery began utilizing this tunnel to cellar fine wines, and its production of kaoliang liquor adopted the name "Ba-Ban Tunnel," which not only became a key feature of Matsu liquor but also enhanced its reputation. Currently, the main passage serves as a storage area for aged wines, while the secondary passage is designated for the kaoliang liquor spouts. The aged wines stored in this section, due to having been out of production, are all over fifteen years old, and once sold out, they will no longer be available, making them even more precious. The aroma of wine fills the tunnel, and being inside it can easily leave one slightly intoxicated.
