LOCALLY DISTILLED

George’s Rhumerie Locally infused rums using local ingredients are the specialty of George’s Rhumerie in Siem Reap. There are 12 flavors including coconut and ginger, sold in various sizes for sipping pleasure.

Sombai Siem Reap produced liqueur infused with local flavors in beautifully hand-painted bottles. Sombai encompasses the flavors and images of Siem Reap. With eight flavors to discover in wonderful combinations like anise and coffee, ginger and red chili and banana and cinnamon to name a few.

Kirel Palm Wine This sweet wine is available in 2 flavors: ginger and pineapple. At 8% alcohol/volume, its unique taste and aroma are perfect for after dinner. It also contains minerals and oligo-elements.

Banon Brandy Sometimes called “Battambang Brandy” because it is distilled in this province by local winemakers at the Chan Thay Chhoueng plantation. At 40% alcohol/volume, it is similar to a young cognac with a caramel-gold color.

Butterfly Pea Flowers

Locally grown butterfly pea flowers are now being infused with alcohol and tea, creating a drink with a vibrant purple hue. In Siem Reap, The Baby Elephant Boutique and Butterfly Pea Hotel have used this simple flower to create their own unique drinks; the Butterfly Pea cocktail and The Mood Ring!

Whether it’s Friday night knock-off drinks or a weekend away to the islands or temple town, cocktails are nearly always on the happy hour menu. In recent years we’ve seen the good old favorites (in a variety of interpretations) on the menus of cheap and cheerful bars, evolve and become more sophisticated as elegant venues embrace the cocktail culture and even make their own bespoke specialties.

Local ingredients like lemongrass, kaffir lime, and fresh local herb. Check out the rose and lemongrass martini at Miss Wong’s.

Adding a touch of class to the Phnom Penh scene is the dark and soulful Jazz Club Elite, serving high quality classics to match the mood.

Going to the beach? Then take a look at the Waterfront Kep and Knai Bang Chatt for sweet cocktails and stunning sunsets.

MOCKTAILS

Don’t like alcohol? Most places make a ‘mock’ version, all of the flavor without the alcohol, think Virgin Mary (Bloody Mary without the vodka), and the fresh Virgin Colada (pineapple and coconut milk). At Sihanoukville’s relaxed movement, many places create their own blends of fruit and flavour adding a tropical vibe to your day. Mint and Lime shake is a Southeast Asian favourite, add a drizzle of honey and you’ll have a drink that will have other guests green with envy.

ICE BREAKERS

Before you take the plunge, follow these words of advice:

Frozen discussions can be made to flow with a little fire water.