Voc Village: Where Traditional Rice Wine Brewing is Preserved

Nestled peacefully beside the poetic Ninh Giang River, Vọc Village in Vũ Bản Commune, Bình Lục District, Hà Nam Province, has long been renowned for its traditional rice wine brewing. Despite the passage of time, the locals have preserved their ancestral secrets to create a delicious, aromatic rice wine that captivates the heart.

A Long History

According to legend, rice wine brewing in Vọc Village dates back to the 13th century. At that time, the royal dragon boats and merchant ships often traveled along the Ninh Giang River, stopping at Vọc Village to purchase rice and wine. Thus, the reputation of Vọc's rice wine spread far and wide.

Secrets of Making Delicious Wine

The main ingredients for this delightful rice wine are glutinous black rice and yellow flower sticky rice, carefully selected from plump, firm grains. After being thoroughly washed, the rice is soaked in water for about six hours and then cooked. The cooked rice is spread out on a flat surface to cool slightly and then sprinkled with medicinal herbs yeast. This yeast is made from 16 to 36 different herbs, which give the wine its distinctive flavor.

The yeast-sprinkled rice is then fermented in ceramic jars for about three to four days. During this time, the rice ferments and turns into wine. The wine is distilled using copper or clay pots, and after two distillations, the final product is obtained. Each batch of wine is the result of the brewer’s meticulous care and patience, capturing the essence of the earth and sky to create a flavor that enchants the senses.

A Flavor That Captivates the Heart

Vọc rice wine has a golden hue, shimmering like honey. When poured into a glass, the aromatic scent of glutinous rice mingled with the light spiciness of medicinal herbs yeast fills the air, stimulating the senses. Sipping a small amount, the sweet taste of glutinous rice blends with the spicy warmth of the yeast, creating an unforgettable aftertaste.

Drinking Vọc rice wine not only relieves stress and fatigue but also allows one to savor the cultural essence of Vietnam. During festivals and special occasions, Vọc rice wine is considered a precious gift to offer to loved ones and friends, symbolizing respect and connection.

A Craft Preserving Cultural Heritage

The traditional craft of rice wine brewing is not only a source of pride for the people of Vọc Village but also an integral part of the cultural and spiritual life of the Vietnamese. Today, Vọc Village is not only famous for its traditional rice wine brewing but also an attractive tourist destination. Visitors can explore the village, learn about the wine-making process, and enjoy the delicious rice wine.

Vọc Village stands as a testament to the resilient vitality of Vietnam's traditional cultural values. Amid the hustle and bustle of modern life, Vọc Village retains its simple, rustic charm, captivating visitors with the aromatic flavor of rice wine and the warm hospitality of its people.

If you have the opportunity to visit Hà Nam, besides exploring Vọc Village to enjoy the wine, you can also savor exquisite dishes and sip delightful wine at Tiến Lộc Palace Hotel. This hotel features a three-star restaurant system right in the heart of Hà Nam city, offering an elegant ambiance and the skill of talented chefs, ensuring you have unforgettable culinary experiences.  
 

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