Dao Distillery has had an incredible first year in business, with many of their spirits taking home top accolades in internationally-recognized competitions. Dao Distillery received three gold medals at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition and, most recently, “Best of Show” in the Rice Spirits category for its Ruou De Viet “50-Year Journey” at the 2025 New Orleans Spirits Competition.

Since opening its doors in September 2024, Dao Distillery has received international recognition as California’s first and the nation’s second distillery of ruou de, a premium Vietnamese rice liquor.

Interested in making your way to Dao Distillery? Dao Distillery will be celebrating its first anniversary on Saturday, October 11. Check out our Event Calendar to see what they have planned! Stop into their tasting room to sample these award-winning spirits!

Ruou De bottles with medals hanging from them lined up on counter at dao distillery — *Dao Distillery in Rancho Cordova has received top honors for its ruou de at the nation’s most prestigious spirits competitions.*

Dao Distillery’s Gold Medal-Winning Spirits

Ruou De Cali – Premium (40% ABV) is a smooth, floral-forward rice spirit designed for approachability and versatility.Tasting notes include delicate floral notes, a wine-like character, and a sweet, smooth, and clean finish.

Ruou De - 50-Year Journey (Limited Edition, 50% ABV) is a commemorative bottle honoring the 50-year journey of Vietnamese refugees—crafted with meaning and pride. This beverage offers bright tropical fruit notes, a clean, sweet finish, and is gentle yet vibrant on the palate.

Ruou De Viet – Reserve (55% ABV) is a high-proof expression meant for connoisseurs who appreciate intensity and depth. It has floral rice and pandan aromas, and a bold, sweet body, and a remarkably smooth finish for its ABV.

These medals acknowledge Dao Distillery's meticulous craft and dedication to sharing these traditional spirits with Rancho Cordova and beyond. We are proud to have them as an integral part of The Barrel District!

Dao Distillery was opened in September 2024 by owner Binh Dao.

What is Ruou De?

Ruou De is a traditional Vietnamese liquor crafted from rice, sharing similarities with soju, shochu, and baijiu. Sometimes referred to as “Vietnamese moonshine,” ruou de is a hard liquor made from distilled fermented rice. According to Taste Atlas, it typically ranges 30% to 40% ABV and is known for its strong, smooth taste.

Where is Dao Distillery located?

Dao Distillery is located in the Rancho Cordova Barrel District at 11460 Sunrise Gold Circle, Suite C, Rancho Cordova. The distillery was opened in September 2024 by Owner/Distiller Binh Dao, who is also a chemistry professor at Sac City College. Dao Distillery is open for private tours, walk-in tastings, and offers bottles to-go.

Cheers to a fantastic first year in business, Dao Distillery! You can find anniversary party details on our Barrel District Events Calendar.