If you’ve ever picked up a bottle of Cider and wondered, “Is this more like beer?” - congratulations, you’re not alone!

In fact, many people still think of Cider as “apple beer” or “apple wine,” since all three are alcoholic drinks, all go through fermentation, and all often make their way into parties, gatherings, or mealtime pairings. But the truth is, Cider carries its own unique story - a story of evolving tastes and drinking culture deeply rooted in Western culinary history.

So why not take a closer look? With Saigon Cider, you’ll see what makes Cider stand out - and why it’s quickly becoming a favorite, not just in the West, but now across Asia too, with Vietnam joining the journey.

Each drink has its own charater

Beer is brewed from barley and malt. Wine is born from ripe, luscious grapes. And Cider? Cider carries the carefree spirit of sun-kissed apple orchards:  sweet, crisp, and refreshing.

Let’s take a quick look at how these three drinks compare:

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

Lively, Elegant, or Unwind?

Beer is the go-to drink at almost every get-together in Vietnam. From street food stalls to birthday parties to nights out with friends, beer fuels the lively social vibe where glasses clink, stories flow, and the energy lasts till late. Chances are, everyone here has at least one memory tied to beer: loud, fun, and full of camaraderie.

Wine, in contrast, brings a different mood. It’s the classy note, showing up at elegant dinners, anniversaries, or those moments that feel more ceremonial than casual. Coming from European culture, wine in Vietnam has become the choice for anyone looking for a touch of sophistication.

Cider sits somewhere in between, with its own twist.

It’s playful enough to match the buzz of beer, but also refined enough to hint at the elegance of wine. You can crack open a bottle with friends, pour it at a party, or simply enjoy it solo on a weekend night with a good movie.

If there’s one word that sums up Cider, it’s unwind - a perfect balance of fun and relaxation.

Why Cider Feels Right at Home in Vietnam

Though Cider has its roots in Europe, it quickyly found a place in Vietnam’s vibrant food and drink scene. And it’s not hard to see why:

Its smooth, subtle finish makes it effortlessly food-friendly

Cider has a light, gentle finish that doesn’t overpower food but instead lets the tastes shine, perfect for a cuisine as layered and diverse as Vietnam’s. 

After years of exploring how Cider pairs with local dishes, three distinct tastes were crafted: Original Apple, Apple & Ginger, and Apple & Chilli. If you get a chance, you can try pairing dishes with Cider using these suggestions:

• Original Apple strikes the right harmony between sweet and tart - great with seafood, salads, and fresh rolls.
• Apple & Ginger adds a warming kick, making it a natural match for grilled meats, hotpots, or a steaming bowl of beef phở.
• Apple & Chilli brings a subtle heat that elevates spicy dishes, smoky barbecue, or seafood with rich sauces.

Light, Sweet, and Easy to Enjoy

Cider has a charm that makes it accessble to everyone, especially for females. With its gentle sweetness and lower alcoholic content, it’s especially loved by those who usually shy away from the bitterness of beer or the heaviness of wine. If beer feels too harsh and wine feels too intense, that’s your sign, it might be time to try Cider.

The Perfect Refreshment for The Tropics

Made from fermented apple juice and always best served chilled, Cider was practically made for hot, humid climates like Vietnam’s. One sip on a warm afternoon brings an instant sense of ease, cool, crisp, and refreshing. It’s the kind of drink that makes you pause, smile, and simply enjoy the moment.

Closing thoughts

If beer were a passionate young man and wine a refined gentleman, then Cider would surely be the gentle muse, light, graceful, and quietly captivating.

Cider begins its own story: it’s not only for lively gatherings with friends. Sometimes, enjoying a Cider alone can be just as rewarding. With its soft, easygoing spirit, Cider feels like a companion that encourages you to slow down, take a breath, and open up, even if it’s just to yourself.