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.
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, 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.
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.
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.
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.
From the capital to coastal towns, Cambodia offers a thriving rum cocktail scene.
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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This article was based on The Rum Geography‘s Rum Guide to Cambodia.
The image of the article is courtesy of © Pipop_Boosarakumwabi via Canva.com
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