The Craft of Making Rose Myrtle Wine in Phu Quoc

A Glimpse into Phu Quoc Rose Myrtle Wine – A Famous Local Specialty

When visiting Phu Quoc, travelers often think of sun-kissed islands, fresh and dried seafood, and the island’s iconic fish sauce. But among the must-try specialties that many tourists choose to bring home as a gift is rose myrtle wine, a unique and memorable taste of the island.

Phu Quoc – located in Kien Giang province – is blessed with vast natural rose myrtle forests. During harvest season, the fruits ripen in abundance. Locals gather and sort them into two main types: “tieu sim” and “hong sim.” Around January (lunar calendar), the berries are at their peak ripeness, making them perfect for producing fragrant and high-quality wine.

Is Phu Quoc Rose Myrtle Wine Good for Your Health? Benefits of Rose Myrtle Wine

Rose myrtle wine is one of Phu Quoc’s signature souvenirs, loved not only for its distinctive taste but also for its surprising health benefits:

• Boosts digestion: A small glass (about 100ml) during meals can aid digestion, enhance appetite, and help relieve bloating or indigestion.
• Reduces fatigue: This wine is believed to nourish the blood. A modest amount consumed regularly, especially by the elderly, may improve blood circulation and reduce joint pain and fatigue.
• Improves blood flow: Unlike many other types of alcohol, rose myrtle wine contains good cholesterol that supports cardiovascular health and helps prevent artery blockage.
• Fights aging: Rich in anthocyanin – a powerful antioxidant – rose myrtle can help combat oxidative stress, inflammation, and even support the body’s natural defense against cancer.
• Slows arteriosclerosis: The wine can increase HDL cholesterol (the “good” cholesterol), making it beneficial for those concerned about heart and artery health, particularly seniors.

The price of Phu Quoc rose myrtle wine ranges from VND 140,000 to 200,000 per 600ml bottle. With its reasonable price and unique flavor, many visitors choose this wine as a thoughtful gift for friends and family after exploring the island.

How Phu Quoc Rose Myrtle Wine Is Made

Rose myrtle wine is primarily made from the “hong sim” variety, which is known for its mildly sweet, astringent flavor and gentle fragrance when ripe. Compared to “tieu sim,” hong sim contains more anthocyanins, tannins, and natural sugars, making it the preferred choice for winemaking.

Local producers on the island use a unique method inspired by traditional grape wine and syrup fermentation techniques. The main ingredients include wild rose myrtle berries, 29% ABV rice wine, and fruit yeast.

After harvesting, the berries are carefully selected, washed, and finely ground. They are then mixed with granulated sugar and fermented for one month following a precise ratio. The result? A deep reddish-purple wine with a delicate sweetness, subtle astringency, and an eye-catching color that captures the essence of Phu Quoc’s wild forests.