Moc Chau “Ruddy Face” Apricot Wins Gold at Lyon 2026: Vietnamese Produce Makes Its Mark on the Global Map

At the Concours International de Lyon 2026, Mầm Distillery’s Moc Chau “ruddy face” apricot spirit proudly took home the Gold Medal in the fruit spirits category, while simultaneously earning the title of “Best Spirits from Vietnam.” This is one of the categories that recognizes outstanding products representing their country within the international evaluation system.

A Familiar Ingredient with a Distinctive Flavor Structure

In the realm of Vietnamese fruit spirits, the apricot is a popular ingredient, closely tied to familiar drinking customs. However, the “ruddy face” apricot—a signature variety from the Northern mountainous regions—possesses distinctly unique characteristics.

Consistent ripeness, a balanced sweet-sour profile, and particularly a subtle kernel note in the finish create a distinct flavor structure. This is a crucial factor ensuring the ingredient doesn’t just stop at being “easy to drink,” but develops into a complete and robust flavor foundation within the spirit.

Two Years of Aging to Perfect the Flavor Structure

The two-year aging process allows the “ruddy face” apricot to develop its necessary depth. The fruit notes become richer and rounder, while the kernel aromas gradually emerge more clearly, creating a smooth transition throughout the tasting experience.

Instead of altering the raw ingredient, the approach focuses on preserving and highlighting its inherent characteristics, thereby building a consistent flavor structure when presented for evaluation.

The Lyon 2026 Gold Medal: Recognition of a Journey

At Lyon 2026, products are evaluated through a strict blind tasting process, ensuring absolute objectivity. In this context, the Moc Chau “ruddy face” apricot liqueur was awarded the Gold Medal in the Fruit Liqueur category, along with the title of Best Spirits from Vietnam.

This award not only reflects the product’s quality but also demonstrates the capability of a familiar Vietnamese ingredient when developed to meet international standards.

From Vietnamese Produce to the Global Market

The achievement at Lyon 2026 marks a step forward in the journey to bring Vietnamese agricultural products to the world through craft spirits. From an ingredient deeply tied to local customs, the “ruddy face” apricot has been repositioned as a flavor foundation capable of competing on the international tasting table.

Conclusion

The Moc Chau “ruddy face” apricot’s outstanding success in bringing home the Gold Medal in the fruit liqueur category and the Best Spirits from Vietnam title at Lyon 2026 is a testament to a development approach rooted in the authentic identity of the ingredient. This is not merely the achievement of a single product, but a milestone showcasing the true potential of Vietnamese spirits in a globalized landscape.