Samai, rum from Cambodia

Located in Phnom Penh, Samai is a small artisanal distillery that produces Cambodia's first and only rum!

Samai in Khmer refers to modernity, a new era, a term that perfectly defines the philosophy of its two founders, Antonio Lopez de Haro and Daniel Pacheco as well as Darachampich Moang first and only Master Blender of the country. Each phase of production takes place at the distillery.

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Cambodia is known for its majestic temples, white sandy beaches, and delicious cuisine. But did you know that the country also produces quality rum? Samai is an artisanal rum distillery located in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia. We will explore the history of Samai, its unique production methods, and the rum tastings they offer.

The History of Samai

The Samai distillery was founded in 2014 by two friends, Antonio and Daniel, who left their jobs to pursue their passion for rum. They began their adventure by building their own copper still and using local ingredients to create their rum. The name "Samai" comes from the Khmer word "samay," which means "time" in French. This reflects their philosophy of taking the time to create a superior quality rum.

Unique Production Methods

Samai uses local ingredients to create their rum, including sugar cane grown in the surrounding fields. They also use Cambodian rice for fermenting their rum, which gives a unique and distinct flavor. The distillation process is also unique, with a handmade copper still that allows for temperature control and creates a smoother, more aromatic rum.

Rum Tastings

Samai offers rum tastings at their distillery in Phnom Penh. Visitors can learn more about the rum production process and taste different types of rum, including their white rum, spiced rum, and oak barrel-aged rum. The tastings are accompanied by local snacks and a welcome cocktail. It's a unique experience for rum enthusiasts and tourists visiting Cambodia.

Where to Find Samai Rum

In addition to their distillery in Phnom Penh, Samai rum is also available in several bars and restaurants across Cambodia. You can also purchase their rum online from Excellence Rhum and have it delivered worldwide. Their bottles have also become popular souvenirs for tourists visiting the country.

The Future of Samai

Samai continues to grow and gain recognition worldwide. They recently won several awards for their rum, including a gold medal at the Rhum Fest Paris in 2019. They have also launched a crowdfunding campaign to build a new distillery and expand their production. With their passion for rum and commitment to the local community, Samai has a promising future.

In Conclusion

If you are a rum enthusiast or looking for a unique experience during your trip to Cambodia, do not miss visiting Samai distillery. You will learn more about the history of rum in Cambodia, discover unique production methods, and taste superior quality rums. Samai is a perfect example of how a small business can have a positive impact on the community and make its mark on the global rum market.