A Rum Lover’s Guide to Cambodia

Nestled in Southeast Asia, Cambodia borders Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and the Gulf of Thailand. Known for its stunning temples, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture, the country is also home to an emerging rum scene that blends traditional craftsmanship with local ingredients.

Cambodia’s sugarcane, harvested between December and March, thrives in provinces like Kampong Speu, Koh Kong, Oddar Meanchey, and Preah Vihear. From bustling cities like Phnom Penh to the ancient wonders of Angkor Wat and the serene beaches of Kampot, Cambodia offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and rum enthusiasts alike.

Rum Destinations in Cambodia

Phnom Penh: The Capital of Cambodian Rum

Phnom Penh, a city of rivers and rich history, serves as the epicenter of Cambodia’s rum production. Two exceptional distilleries, Ampov and Samai, showcase the artistry and innovation behind Cambodian rum.

Ampov Distillery: Crafting Authentic Cambodian Rum

Ampov Distillery, near Phnom Penh, introduced Cambodia’s first pure cane juice rum. French entrepreneur Ralph Meyer, with guidance from French rum distiller Guillaume Ferroni, launched the distillery in 2022. The name “Ampov” reflects the Khmer word for “sugarcane garden” and pays homage to the fertile lands where the cane grows.

• Production Process:
  The sugarcane, cut by hand and pressed the same day, produces pure juice of exceptional quality. A two-stage distillation in copper pot stills ensures the highest standards of craftsmanship.
• Rum Range:
  • Ampov Premium White Rum (42° and 55°): Bottled after resting at the distillery, offering vibrant, fresh flavors.
  • Ampov Premium Amber Rum (40° and 45°): Aged in ex-Cognac barrels for a refined profile.
  • Limited Editions: Wild White (55°) and Ampov aged in Vino Santo barrels, alongside a blended mixing rum ideal for cocktails.

Visitors can explore Ampov’s offerings by appointment and find its rums in prominent Phnom Penh bars like Sora and Raffles’ Elephant Bar or purchase them at The Warehouse stores.

Samai Distillery: Pioneering Premium Cambodian Rum

In 2014, Venezuelan entrepreneurs Daniel Pacheco and Antonio Lopez De Haro established Samai Distillery, introducing premium molasses rum to Cambodia. They combined Latin American rum traditions with local resources, creating an award-winning portfolio.

• Production Process:
  Samai uses Koh Kong molasses, ferments it for 6-7 days, and distills it in copper pot stills. Aging takes place in ex-bourbon, sherry, and French oak barrels, creating a complex range of rums.
• Rum Range:
  • Samai White Rum: Aged at least two years, offering a smooth and versatile option.
  • Samai Gold Rum: Aged up to four years in various casks for a rich and layered flavor.
  • Samai Kampot Pepper Rum: Infused with aromatic Kampot pepper for a spicy twist.
  • Samai PX Rum Liqueur: Aged in Pedro Ximenez barrels with Spanish PX wine for a sweet, luxurious profile.

Samai Distillery opens its doors to visitors for tours and tastings every Thursday and Saturday evening, where guests can enjoy their rums neat or in expertly crafted cocktails.

Where to Savor Rum in Cambodia

From the capital to coastal towns, Cambodia offers a thriving rum cocktail scene.

• Phnom Penh: Elephant Bar, Sora Bar, Sundown Social Club, TicTic.
• Siem Reap: Asana Old Wooden House, The Angkor What? Bar, Long’s Bar.
• Krong Kampot: Tiki Garden.

Plan Your Cambodian Rum Adventure

Pair your rum exploration with Cambodia’s cultural highlights. Visit Angkor Wat, chase waterfalls in the Cardamom Mountains, or enjoy Cambodian New Year festivities in mid-April. Whether sipping cocktails in a rooftop bar or touring distilleries, Cambodia offers a vibrant and flavorful journey for rum enthusiasts.

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Source of information

This article was based on The Rum Geography‘s Rum Guide to Cambodia 2024. Check the full guide here!

The image of the article is courtesy of © Pipop_Boosarakumwabi via Canva.com