What is Vietnamese Coffee?

Vietnamese coffee offers a delightful and distinct taste experience that's gaining global recognition. With a rich history and unique brewing methods, Vietnamese coffee has become a beloved beverage for coffee enthusiasts and a cultural cornerstone in Vietnam. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at what makes Vietnamese coffee so special.

The Coffee Bean Varieties

Vietnam primarily grows two main varieties of coffee beans: Robusta and Arabica. Robusta coffee thrives in the Central Highlands' rugged terrain, making Vietnam one of the world's leading Robusta coffee producers. Known for its bold and strong flavour, Robusta is a key component of many Vietnamese coffee blends and makes up the majority of Vietnamese coffee production.

In addition to Robusta, the cooler highland regions of Vietnam, like Dalat and Son La, are ideal for growing Arabica coffee. Arabica coffee beans from Vietnam are characterized by their bright acidity, floral notes, and smooth, mild taste.

At May Coffee Crew we stock both. Our Buffalo (Robusta) is 100% single-origin Vietnamese Robusta, bold and chocolatey with double the caffeine. Our Sunshine (Arabica) is produced by an IWCA women's cooperative in Son La, smooth, light and beautifully clean. And our Honeymoon Blend marries the two for the best of both worlds.

The Brewing Methods: A Fusion of East and West

One of the most distinctive features of Vietnamese coffee is the brewing method. The traditional Vietnamese coffee is often made using a drip brewing method, which is reminiscent of the French press but with a unique twist. A small metal drip filter, known as a "phin," is used to brew the coffee. This filter sits atop a glass or cup, and hot water is poured over the finely ground coffee, allowing it to slowly drip into the container below. This method results in a strong and concentrated coffee that can be enjoyed hot or cold.

Want to try it yourself? Our Vietnamese Phin Filter is stainless steel, eco-friendly, and beginner-friendly. We also have a full How to Brew with a Phin Filter guide to get you started.

The Sweet Secret: Condensed Milk

Vietnamese coffee is famous for its sweet and creamy twist. A generous amount of sweetened condensed milk is added to the coffee, creating a harmonious blend of flavours. The iconic "ca phe sua da" is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. This coffee is typically served iced, with the condensed milk providing a delightful contrast to the strong coffee.

Want to try it without brewing at home first? Our Condensed Milk Iced Coffee is an NZ Artisan Awards winner, ready-to-drink in cans and available at over 30 stockists across Auckland and Wellington.

Iced Coffee: A Vietnamese Specialty

One of the most popular ways to enjoy Vietnamese coffee is in its iced form. The hot and humid climate of Vietnam makes iced coffee a refreshing choice. "Ca phe sua da" is a staple in Vietnamese coffee shops and is often served in a glass filled with ice, making it a perfect beverage to cool down with. Learn more in our full guide to Vietnamese iced coffee in NZ.

Coffee Culture: More Than Just a Drink

Vietnamese coffee isn't just about the brew; it's also about the experience. Coffee shops, often family-owned businesses, play an essential role in Vietnamese social life. They're places to gather, chat, work, and relax. The vibrant coffee culture of Vietnam is a testament to the role coffee plays in people's daily lives.

Ready to explore Vietnamese coffee for yourself? Start with The Triplet Sampler and taste all three of our coffees side by side, or grab a can of our Condensed Milk Iced Coffee from your nearest stockist.