Still mixing up your cider, beer, and wine? Then you’ve come to the right place. Choosing the right drink isn’t just about making the fun last longer; it’s a subtle way to show off your personal taste.

Let’s dive in and decode these three familiar contenders.

Beer: A representative of a Vibrant Party

Beer is the familiar choice at every Vietnamese gathering. From bustling sidewalk stalls to birthday parties and friendly reunions, beer has become an indispensable part of our social culture.

To mention beer is to mention the thunderous chants of "1, 2, 3, Dô!" and stories that stretch late into the night. It’s a vibe of high energy, noise, and community. However, the characteristic bitterness of hops can sometimes be a hurdle for beginners.

Wine: A note of Quiet Elegance

In complete contrast to the boisterous energy of beer, wine brings a very different mood. It’s like a low, sophisticated note, usually appearing at elegant dinners or anniversaries that feel more ceremonial than just casual fun.

Rooted in long-standing European culture, wine arrived in Vietnam as the go-to choice for those seeking refinement and class. Appreciating wine requires a slow pace to truly feel the complex layers of aged grapes.

Cider: The perfect mix of Lively and Chill

People often mistake cider for "Apple Wine" or "Apple Beer," but in reality, cider is craft fermented apple juice with a kick.

Breaking the stereotype that alcoholic drinks must be "heavy", cider is specially designed for those who want to enjoy the buzz without the burn. With an average ABV of around 4.6%, it sits significantly lower than wine and is on par with most beers on the market.

But what sets cider apart is the taste. With its crisp acidity, light sweetness, and incredible drinkability, cider can "make friends" with anyone from the very first sip. Whether you’re at a loud house party or just enjoying a peaceful solo night, cider remains the perfect companion, a versatile catalyst for both vibrant nights and unwind moments.

Lively, elegant, or unwind?

Here is a quick breakdown to help you decide:

Criteria	Beer	Wine	Cider
Ingredients	Barley, malt	Grapes	100% apple juice
Alcoholic (ABV)	Around 4-6% (stronger styles up to 6-8%)	Around 12-15% (red wines often ~13-15%)	Usually 4-6% (some craft Ciders can reach ~8-10%)
Taste	Light bitterness with malty aroma	Sweet or tannic, sometimes with oaky notes	Naturally sweet, crisp apple aroma, generally less bitter than beer

Closing thoughts

If you love the loud, energetic crowds, beer is definitely your soulmate. If you prefer elegance and deep conversations, go ahead and pour the wine. But if you need a flexible companion, fun enough to join the party, yet smooth enough to help you relax, then cider is undoubtedly the drink for you.

Don’t know where to drink organic craft cider in Vietnam? Check out this article!