The national alcoholic drink of Vietnam is ruou can, also known as rice-distilled liquor. Traditionally, ruou can was not highly regarded and was primarily consumed by laborers, farmers, and ethnic minorities. However, in recent times, there has been a shift in perception towards ruou can, and it is gaining popularity among a wider audience.
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to explore and learn about various alcoholic beverages from different cultures. My experiences have taught me that every country has its own unique national drink that reflects its cultural heritage and traditions. In Vietnam, ruou can holds this distinction.
Ruou can is made through the process of distilling fermented rice. It is a clear and strong liquor with a distinct flavor profile. The production of ruou can involves fermenting cooked rice with yeast, which converts the sugars into alcohol. This mixture is then distilled to extract the alcohol, resulting in a potent spirit.
One of the reasons why ruou can was traditionally associated with lower social classes is its affordability. The production process is relatively simple and inexpensive, making it accessible to a wide range of people. Additionally, the drink has a high alcohol content, which may have contributed to its reputation as a drink for laborers and farmers who needed a strong and cheap source of alcohol.
However, in recent years, there has been a growing appreciation for ruou can among a broader demographic. People are starting to recognize the unique flavors and cultural significance of this traditional Vietnamese drink. It is now being enjoyed by individuals from all walks of life, not just those in lower social classes.
In my personal experience, I had the opportunity to try ruou can during a visit to Vietnam. I was intrigued by its reputation and wanted to explore its flavors and understand its cultural significance. I found the drink to be surprisingly complex, with a unique combination of sweetness and a hint of earthiness. It had a smooth texture and a warming sensation as it went down.
What fascinated me the most was the communal aspect of consuming ruou can. It is traditionally served in small porcelain cups, and people gather around a large communal jar called a “ruou can.” This communal drinking experience creates a sense of unity and camaraderie among the participants.
Ruou can is often enjoyed during celebrations, festivals, and special occasions in Vietnam. It has become an integral part of the country's cultural heritage and is symbolic of the Vietnamese people's resilience and resourcefulness.
Ruou can is the national alcoholic drink of Vietnam. While it was once considered a drink for the lower social classes, it is now gaining recognition and appreciation among a wider audience. Its unique flavors, affordability, and cultural significance make it a fascinating and important part of Vietnam's culinary traditions.