France, a country renowned for its romantic allure, fashion trends, and unique sparkling wines, also boasts a diverse range of globally acclaimed beer brands. French beers are celebrated for their distinct and memorable flavors, and here, we explore the top 5 French beers that have gained a strong following in Vietnam.
1. Desperados Beer
Desperados Beer: A Unique Blend with a Tequila Twist
Desperados Beer, which made its debut in France in 1995, instantly captivated drinkers with its unusual flavor profile. It merges 75% tequila with premium beer yeast, malt, and citric acid, resulting in a smooth harmony of bitterness and sweetness. With an alcohol content of 5.9%, this beer has become a staple at parties, thanks to its distinctive and memorable taste.
Average price: 399,000 VND for a pack of 24 bottles (250ml each)
2. Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc: A Golden Lager with a Twist of Citrus
Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc: Citrusy Freshness with a Hint of Coriander
Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc, first brewed in 1664 by master brewer Geronimus Hatt in Alsace, France, is a source of national pride. This golden lager, with its 5% alcohol content, is characterized by the use of Strisselspalt hops, indigenous to Alsace, imparting a distinctive bitterness and aroma. The beer presents a delightful marriage of sweetness and freshness, subtly accented by coriander, ensuring an elegant and refined drinking experience.
Average price: 790,000 VND for 24 bottles (250ml each)
3. Larue Beer: A Vietnamese Favorite
Larue Beer: Iconic “Tiger” Brew
Larue Beer, established in France in 1909 by Victor Larue, has become a household name in Vietnam. Its iconic “tiger” logo and golden hue have come to symbolize a smooth, slightly sweet beer with a low alcohol content. Brewed primarily from barley, cereals, and hops, Larue offers an alcohol content of 4.2% for its regular beer and 4.6% for Larue Special.
Average price: 235,000 VND for a case of 24 cans (330ml each)
4. Licorne Beer: A Classic French Pilsner
Licorne Beer: Captivating Beer Enthusiasts Since 1845
Licorne Beer, crafted by the esteemed Karlsbräu brewery in France since 1845, is a pilsner-style beer. Brewed with barley malt and hops sourced from the finest regions of France, it delivers a unique and refreshing flavor that has won over beer enthusiasts. In Vietnam, the two most popular variants are Licorne Elsass and Black by Licorne, each presenting distinct characteristics. Licorne Elsass, with 5.5% alcohol, entices with its golden color, gentle sweetness, and subtle bitter finish, while Black by Licorne, at 6% alcohol, showcases a complex aroma profile of roasted malt, honey, and dried fruit.
While Licorne Elsass and Black by Licorne are the most popular in Vietnam, other variants like White by Licorne, Licorne 1845, and Licorne Bio are also available, although less common.
Average price: 690,000 – 790,000 VND for 24 bottles (330ml each), depending on the variant
5. Saint Omer Beer: A Traditional French Brew
Saint Omer Beer: A Beloved French Classic
Saint Omer, established in 1866, is a beloved French beer brand. The brewery set a remarkable record by producing 144,000 bottles in just one hour! Saint Omer beer is crafted with wheat, hops, barley malt, and other carefully selected ingredients, following traditional brewing recipes from the monasteries of Saint Omer. Despite a modest alcohol content of 4.5% – 5%, it offers a robust and refined flavor. The caramelized malt and wheat create a smooth, refreshing taste, perfectly balancing bitterness and sweetness.
Average price: 490,000 VND for 20 bottles (250ml each)
Now you’re equipped with knowledge of the top 5 French beers that have captivated the hearts of beer enthusiasts in Vietnam. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, be sure to sample these beers and discover the unique flavors that France has to offer!
