By Cath Isabedra 

Mass-produced lagers predominantly dominated Vietnam’s beer landscape. The country, known as one of the world’s largest beer consumers, had a beer culture largely centered around inexpensive, light lagers typically enjoyed in social settings. The concept of craft beer, with its emphasis on quality, unique flavors, and artisanal brewing techniques, was virtually unknown to most Vietnamese consumers. The market was ripe for innovation, and East West Brewing Co. seized the opportunity to introduce a new era of beer in Vietnam. 

Vietnam’s craft beer scene has seen a revolutionary transformation with the advent of East West Brewing Co., one of the country’s pioneering microbreweries. Founded by Mr. Truong The Loc, an American-born Vietnamese, this brewery has not only introduced a variety of unique beers to the Vietnamese market but has also become a leader in cultural fusion and innovation. 

Bridging east and west through craft beer 

In Vietnam, commercial beers were ubiquitous, favored for their low cost and easy availability. However, they lacked the distinctive flavors and artisanal craftsmanship that characterize craft beers. As Vietnam’s middle class grew and its urban population became more cosmopolitan, there was a burgeoning demand for premium products, including high-quality beers with unique and sophisticated flavors. 

East West Brewing Co. recognized this gap and seized the opportunity to introduce a craft beer culture that was virtually non-existent in Vietnam. By blending Eastern and Western brewing techniques, they aimed to create a product that would appeal to both local tastes and international standards. This approach was timely and necessary as it catered to the evolving preferences of Vietnamese consumers, who were increasingly seeking new and diverse culinary experiences. 

The company employs a sophisticated digital beer brewing system uniquely designed to meet their specific needs. This system is openly displayed at their Ho Chi Minh City location, offering diners a transparent view of the fermenting and brewing process. This transparency extends to their ingredient sourcing, ensuring the use of the best and cleanest components. 

“Our objective is to deliver a wide variety of delicious and high-quality beers,” says Loc. This commitment is evident in their use of high-quality local ingredients and imported hops from countries like the United States, Germany, Australia, and New Zealand. The result is a series of craft beers that boast a unique aroma and inventive flavors, setting them apart in a market where craft beer culture is still emerging. 

A unique brewing process 

East West Brewing Co. stands out for its innovative approach to blending Eastern and Western brewing techniques. They utilize local ingredients such as plums, durian, and palm sugar to create beers with distinct flavors and national characteristics. This fusion is exemplified in their Belgian Blonde and Belgian Dark beers, which use palm sugar from the An Giang region instead of traditional sugar, imparting a unique sweetness. 

The brewing process at East West Brewing is meticulously traditional, ensuring purity and preserving the yeast that contributes to the beer’s bitterness and aroma.  

“Unlike mass-produced beers, which often use enzymes for fermentation, East West’s beers undergo a natural fermentation process lasting 3-6 weeks, resulting in a full-bodied flavor without preservatives.” 

Crafting community and culture 

East West Brewing Co. is more than just a place to enjoy craft beer. It has become a community hub that is actively involved in supporting local initiatives and fostering a sense of community.  

“We think that by working together, we can make a difference in the world, one beer and one experience at a time,” Loc emphasizes. 

The brewery also practices sustainability by incorporating solar energy in their brewing operations and donating spent grain to local farmers for livestock feed. This commitment to sustainability is a testament to their dedication to making a positive impact on both the local community and the environment. 

Da Nang: A new frontier 

East West Brewing’s expansion to Da Nang aligns perfectly with their mission to connect people through craft beer. Located on My Khe’s white sand beach, the Da Nang location promises an unforgettable experience, combining the majesty of the ocean with a selection of craft beers inspired by global traditions and fresh seafood. 

“We hope East West Brewing Da Nang can connect many people from all over the world through our craft beers, contributing to Da Nang tourism as beer tourism grows worldwide,” Loc shares.  

Inspired by craft breweries worldwide, the brewery’s design includes an outdoor terrace, a restaurant, and private rooms, offering a versatile space for events like weddings, parties, and corporate gatherings. 

A toast to the future 

East West Brewing Co. has ambitious plans for the future, including expanding their presence in Southeast Asia with new taprooms and introducing innovative beer styles. They are particularly interested in hybrid beers that blend Asian ingredients with traditional brewing methods, such as fruit-infused beers using local tropical fruits and aged beers with regional spices. 

Loc recommends trying the East West Pilsner paired with Cajun seafood or the “King Flight” set, which includes ten varieties of craft beers for those visiting the Da Nang location for the first time. These offerings encapsulate the spirit of East West Brewing Co., where the fusion of flavors and cultures creates a truly unique and memorable experience. 

By using local ingredients and sustainable practices, the brewery not only offers unique, high-quality craft beers but also makes a positive impact on the community. With their planned expansion, both domestically and globally, East West Brewing Co. continues to innovate, bringing new flavors and experiences to beer lovers.  

This article first came out in our “Sip the Spirit of Asia” issue.