Vietnam is not only famous for its street food and coffee culture but also for its unique Vietnamese drinks with alcohol. From strong traditional rice wines to light, refreshing beers, Vietnamese alcoholic beverages reflect the country’s diverse culture and regional specialties. Whether you’re visiting Vietnam or just curious about its drinking culture, Jellyfish will provide you with an in-depth guide to must-try Vietnamese alcoholic drinks and how to enjoy them like a local.
1. Rượu Nếp – Vietnamese Sticky Rice Wine
One of the most traditional Vietnamese alcoholic drinks, rượu nếp is a fermented sticky rice wine with a naturally sweet and slightly tangy flavor. It is often enjoyed during festivals, family gatherings, and special celebrations.
- Alcohol Content: 12–15%
- Taste: Sweet, slightly sour, and aromatic
- How to Drink: Served at room temperature, sometimes with fermented rice grains
- Fun Fact: In some Vietnamese families, people believe rượu nếp helps with digestion and is even offered as part of ancestor worship rituals.
2. Rượu Gạo – Vietnamese Rice Wine
Rice wine, or rượu gạo, is the most common traditional alcohol in Vietnam, often made at home or in small villages. It has a strong alcohol content and is widely used in celebrations, festivals, and even traditional medicine.
- Alcohol Content: 25–40%
- Taste: Strong, slightly harsh, with a warm aftertaste
- How to Drink: Served in small ceramic cups, often paired with dried squid or peanuts
- Tip: If you’re invited to drink rice wine with locals, be prepared for multiple rounds of toasts.
3. Rượu Cần – Vietnamese Fermented Rice Wine
A specialty of ethnic minority groups in Vietnam, rượu cần is a unique communal drink enjoyed through long bamboo straws from a large clay jar. It is a must-try for those who want an authentic Vietnamese drinking experience.
- Alcohol Content: 10–15%
- Taste: Sweet, slightly fruity, and earthy
- How to Drink: Traditionally shared among friends or family using bamboo straws
- Experience It: If you visit Vietnam’s Central Highlands, don’t miss the chance to join a rượu cần ceremony, where locals drink together and perform traditional dances.
4. Bia Hơi – Vietnamese Draft Beer
No list of Vietnamese drinks with alcohol is complete without mentioning bia hơi. This locally brewed draft beer is incredibly light, refreshing, and perfect for hot weather. It’s widely available at street-side beer shops, known as “quán nhậu”.
- Alcohol Content: 3–4%
- Taste: Light, slightly bitter, with a crisp finish
- How to Drink: Served cold in large mugs, best paired with grilled meats and seafood
- Where to Try: Hanoi is famous for its bia hơi culture, especially around Bia Hơi Corner in the Old Quarter.
5. Rượu Sim – Vietnamese Rose Myrtle Wine
A specialty of Phu Quoc Island, rượu sim is made from fermented rose myrtle fruit, creating a sweet, fruity wine that’s popular among both locals and tourists.
- Alcohol Content: 14–18%
- Taste: Sweet, slightly tart, with floral notes
- How to Drink: Served at room temperature or chilled, pairs well with seafood
- Health Benefits: Some believe rượu sim helps with digestion and improves circulation.
6. Rượu Mơ – Vietnamese Apricot Liqueur
For those who prefer a milder, fruity drink, rượu mơ (apricot liqueur) is a great choice. It’s made from pickled apricots soaked in alcohol, resulting in a smooth, slightly tangy flavor.
- Alcohol Content: 15–25%
- Taste: Sweet, tangy, with a smooth finish
- How to Drink: Served cold or with ice, often enjoyed as an aperitif
- Where to Find It: Rượu mơ is especially popular in Hanoi and can be found in local specialty stores
7. Drinking Culture in Vietnam – What You Need to Know
Drinking in Vietnam is a social activity, often accompanied by food and endless toasts. Here are some important things to remember:
- “Một, hai, ba, dzô!” – The Vietnamese version of “Cheers!”
- Respect elders – Let older people take the first sip before drinking.
- Pace yourself – Vietnamese drinking culture can be intense, so drink responsibly.
- Pair your drinks with food – Drinking is almost always accompanied by snacks like dried squid, peanuts, or grilled meats.
Final Thoughts – Enhance Your Vietnamese Experience
From traditional rice wines to refreshing beers, Vietnamese drinks with alcohol offer a unique way to experience the country’s culture and hospitality. Whether you prefer something strong like rượu gạo, fruity like rượu sim, or light like bia hơi, there’s a perfect drink for everyone.
To truly immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture, understanding the language can make a big difference. Learning basic Vietnamese will help you confidently order drinks, join conversations, and connect with locals on a deeper level.
👉 Jellyfish offers Vietnamese language courses designed for beginners and advanced learners. Whether you want to improve your speaking skills, master essential phrases, or gain cultural insights, our courses will help you communicate confidently in Vietnam.
For more information about Vietnamese courses and a free consultation, please fill in your information below, and Jellyfish will contact you.
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