Ha Giang Buckwheat Whisky

Do I Like It? Yes!

Brand: Herevia Distillery 

Country:  Vietnam

Region:  Ha Noi with buckwheat from Ha Giang

Proof: 102 (51% ABV)

Age: 3  Years in first-fill Bourbon Barrels

Tasting Date: 7/30/2025

Nose:  Sweet and slightly smoking with a metallic undertone. Makes me think of a caramel factory, machinery and sweets, on fire. 

Bottle-Stated Tasting Notes:  N/A

Tasting Notes:  Very sweet upfront with notes of toffee, oats and black pepper. The barest hint of copper is present in the middle of the taste, largely hidden beneath the sweetness. A mildly smoky taste that reminds me of peat, despite no indication that it is a peated whiskey, lingers long after drinking. The intense sweetness pairs well with the slight smoke, making for a pleasant pairing. 


Review: Overall, I really enjoy this unique whisky. It seems to have been a limited production which unfortunately means I'll likely never get my hands on another bottle. It is fascinating to me to see what the use of first-fill bourbon barrels has on a distinctly Scotch-style whisky in the warmer climate of Vietnam. Much more of the bourbon-typical sweetness is imparted into the whisky making for something of a fusion, unlike many true Scotches that are aged or finished in bourbon barrels. Despite the young age the whiskey is smooth, though some friends have have described it as "hot". My favorite way to drink it is with a small bit of ice or a splash of chilled water, as the bottle recommends. I hope to find more Vietnamese whisky in the near future and maybe someday I can without flying all the way over there.

Score: 8/10