Top 11 Authentic Vietnamese Beer Brands Brewed Locally in Vietnam
1. Saigon Beer (Bia Saigon)
Saigon Beer, also known as Bia Saigon, is arguably the most iconic beer brand in Vietnam. Brewed by Sabeco, one of the country’s largest breweries headquartered in Ho Chi Minh City, Bia Saigon is a staple in the Vietnamese beer market. This lager, with an alcohol by volume (ABV) content of 4.9%, is crafted using traditional ingredients such as water, barley, malt, and hops. Its smooth, crisp flavor makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
In addition to its flagship lager, Bia Saigon offers a variety of other options:
- Bia Saigon Special: A 100% malt beer with a 4.9% ABV, known for its rich flavor and smooth finish.
- Bia Saigon Export: A classic lager with a 4.9% ABV, reflecting the traditional brewing methods of Saigon.
- Bia Saigon Chill: A cold-filtered lager with a slightly lower ABV of 4.6%, perfect for refreshing moments.
2. 333 Export
Another popular product from Sabeco is the 333 Export, a beer that has gained international recognition. According to Sabeco, 333 is the best-selling Vietnamese beer brand globally, exported to over 18 countries. This lager beer, brewed with water, malt, barley, cereal, and hops, stands out with a higher ABV of 5.3%, making it a stronger choice for those who prefer a robust beer.
The history of 333 beer dates back to before its official launch in 1985. Initially known as 33 Beer (Ba Mươi Ba in Vietnamese), the name derived from the 33-centiliter bottles it was originally sold in. This beer became particularly popular among American soldiers during the Vietnam War. After the war, it was rebranded as 333, often referred to as Ba Ba Ba by locals.
3. Tiger Beer
Tiger Beer, although originally from Singapore, has found a significant following in Vietnam. Brewed by Heineken Vietnam, Tiger Beer is celebrated as one of the biggest beer brands in the world, and its popularity in Vietnam is unmatched. The flagship Tiger Lager, along with variants like Tiger Crystal, Tiger White, and Tiger Black, cater to a wide range of beer enthusiasts.
In 2021, Tiger Beer underwent a rebranding that included new labels and advertising campaigns, one of which was the short story "Yet Here I Am." This campaign aimed to inspire resilience and turning adversity into opportunity, a message that resonated strongly during the global pandemic.
4. Larue Beer
Larue Beer has a long history dating back to 1909 when it was first brewed in Saigon by Victor Larue, a Frenchman who brought European brewing techniques to Vietnam. The original Larue Beer is a testament to this blend of European and Vietnamese influences, offering a balanced flavor that appeals to a wide audience.
In 2017, Larue Special was introduced as a premium version of the original, boasting a perfect balance of bitterness and sweetness with a 4.6% ABV. The launch of Larue Special was celebrated with beer festivals in Da Nang and Ca Mau, a tradition that continues to this day, featuring music, games, and free beer samples.
5. Hanoi Beer (Bia Hà Nội)
Hanoi Beer, also known as Bia Hà Nội, is another significant player in the Vietnamese beer industry. Produced by HEBECO, this 4.4% ABV lager is a staple in the northern regions of Vietnam, particularly around the capital city. Bia Hà Nội is a favorite among locals and visitors, thanks to its light, refreshing taste.
HEBECO also produces other varieties of Hanoi Beer, including:
- Hanoi Beer 1890: With a 4.3% ABV, this beer is a nod to the long history of brewing in the region.
- Hanoi Beer Green Label: A slightly lighter option with a 4.2% ABV.
- Hanoi Beer Premium: A stronger, more refined lager with a 4.9% ABV.
- Hanoi Beer Bold: Offering a fuller flavor with a 4.8% ABV.
- Hanoi Beer Light: A lighter version with a 4.5% ABV.
Though primarily popular in Vietnam, Hanoi Beer is also exported to countries like Taiwan, Korea, and Australia.
6. Huda Beer
Huda Beer, brewed by Hue Breweries under the Carlsberg Group, is a pilsner-style beer with a loyal following in Vietnam. Originating from Huế, this beer is known for its light, slightly hoppy flavor and an ABV of 4.7%. Huda Beer is considered a traditional Vietnamese beer that resonates with both locals and tourists.
The brand also offers Huda Gold and Huda Ice Blast, both with the same 4.7% ABV but with subtle differences in flavor profile.
7. Halida Beer
Another Carlsberg Group product, Halida Beer, has a unique name that combines elements of Vietnamese and Danish influences: "Ha" from Hanoi, "Lien Doanh" meaning joint venture, and "Danmach," the Vietnamese word for Denmark. This pale lager, introduced in 1993, contains 5% ABV and is said to be based on a traditional North Vietnamese recipe.
In 2020, Halida expanded its range with Halida Export All Malt, a 5% ABV lager, and Halida Dark, a stronger beer with a 5.5% ABV.
8. Bia Lac Viet
Bia Lạc Việt is another offering from Sabeco, known for its easy-drinking yet flavorful lager with a 4.3% ABV. This beer was created to celebrate the 145th anniversary of Sabeco’s historic brewery on Nguyen Chi Thanh Street. The beer represents the brewery's rich heritage while embracing modern brewing techniques. Although primarily available within Vietnam, Bia Lac Viet is cherished for its authentic taste that resonates with the country's brewing tradition.
9. Truc Bach Beer
Truc Bach Beer, named after the picturesque Truc Bach Lake in Hanoi, has been a part of Vietnam's beer culture since 1958. Brewed by HABECO, this beer is notable for its use of Saaz hops, one of the world's four noble hops from the Zatec Valley in the Czech Republic. Truc Bach Beer is HABECO's strongest beer, with a 5.1% ABV, making it a bold choice for beer enthusiasts.
10. Dia Viet Beer
Dia Viet Beer, produced by Huong Sen Brewery in northern Vietnam, offers a diverse range of beer styles, including:
- Pilsner: 5% ABV
- Red: 5.5% ABV
- Black: 5.8% ABV
- Lager: 4.7% ABV
- Silver: 4.5% ABV
- Super: 5% ABV
Each variety of Dia Viet beer brings something unique to the table, catering to different tastes and preferences.
11. Festival Beer
Rounding off the list is Festival Beer, another product from the Carlsberg Group introduced in 2020. With the tagline "Open Festival, Start a Carnival," this beer is designed to embody the spirit of celebration. Festival Beer is brewed with 100% malt and Saaz hops, giving it a smooth, herbal flavor that is both distinct and enjoyable.
Finally
Vietnam's beer culture is as diverse and vibrant as the country itself. From the well-known brands like Saigon Beer and 333 Export to the more regional favorites like Huda and Truc Bach, each beer tells a story of Vietnam's rich brewing heritage. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast exploring the streets of Ho Chi Minh City or a traveler enjoying a cold one by Hanoi’s lakes, Vietnam offers a beer for every palate. So next time you find yourself in Vietnam, make sure to sample these iconic brews and experience the country's beer culture firsthand. If there are any other Vietnamese beers you think should be on this list, feel free to share in the comments!
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