First Vietnamese rice liquor distillery opens in Rancho Cordova

In Rancho Cordova, California, a new distillery named Dao Distillery has opened, marking a significant milestone as the first Vietnamese rice liquor distillery in the state and the second in the entire U.S. Founded by Binh Dao, the distillery specializes in producing rượu đế, a premium Vietnamese rice liquor that shares similarities with whiskey and sake in its production process. Dao's journey to establish this distillery is rooted in his personal history, having survived a perilous journey from Vietnam to the U.S. after spending years in a refugee camp. His passion for liquor and desire to showcase traditional Vietnamese beverages led him to create a tasting room that aims to elevate the perception of rượu đế among both Vietnamese and broader audiences. Dao hopes to change stereotypes associated with the liquor, emphasizing its quality and safety, and to instill pride in this traditional product within the Vietnamese community.