Workshop Visit and Sombai Liqueur Tasting

Exploring the captivating process behind Cambodia’s renowned Sombai liqueur is a unique opportunity not to be missed. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant infusion room, witnessing the meticulous maceration of exotic fruits, spices, and botanicals. The tasting experience then tantalizes the senses with a diverse range of flavors, from the zesty Lemon & Lemongrass to the aromatic Ginger & Red Chili. But the experience doesn’t end there – the on-site shop provides a chance to bring home a piece of Cambodian culinary heritage, allowing guests to savor the rich history and craftsmanship behind each bottle.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Workshops And Classes In Siem Reap.

Key Points

• Visitors can take a 1-hour tour to see how Sombai liqueur is made, including exploring the infusion room and sampling up to 8 different flavors.
• The tour provides a behind-the-scenes look at the careful maceration process and the vibrant colors that represent the diverse flavor profiles of Sombai liqueurs.
• The tasting experience allows guests to discover the depth and complexity of Sombai’s signature liqueurs, including flavors like Lemon & Lemongrass, Banana & Cinnamon, and Ginger & Red Chili.
• The on-site shop offers a selection of Sombai liqueurs and other homemade products, providing an opportunity to bring a piece of Cambodian culture back home.
• The small-group tour experience offers an intimate atmosphere, allowing guests to witness the dedication and craftsmanship behind Sombai liqueurs and connect with Cambodia’s culinary heritage.

Overview of the Experience

This 1-hour Sombai workshop tour from Siem Reap allows visitors to see firsthand how the popular Sombai liqueur is made as they explore the infusion room.

During the tour, guests can sample up to 8 different flavors of Sombai, ranging from dessert liqueurs like Lemon & Lemongrass and Banana & Cinnamon to starter flavors such as Ginger & Red Chili and Mango & Green Chili.

The small-group format ensures a personalized experience, and participants can purchase Sombai and other homemade products before the tour ends.

The experience is open to both drinkers and non-drinkers, with snacks provided for all. It’s a unique opportunity to learn about and taste this signature Cambodian spirit.

Sombai Infusion Room Visit

During the Sombai workshop tour, visitors step into the infusion room where they witness the meticulous process of crafting this signature Cambodian liqueur.

Rows of infusion jars line the shelves, each containing a unique blend of exotic fruits, spices, and botanicals that will impart their distinct flavors to the liqueur. The guide explains the careful maceration process, noting how the ingredients are carefully selected and combined to create the complex and aromatic Sombai flavors.

Guests observe the infusion jars, some clear, others tinted with vibrant colors, each representing a different flavor profile. This behind-the-scenes look offers a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into making Sombai liqueur.

Sampling the Sombai Flavors

After exploring the infusion room, visitors eagerly await the Sombai liqueur tasting, where they can sample up to eight distinctive flavors showcasing the brand’s creative blend of Cambodian ingredients.

The tasting experience delights the senses, from the zesty notes of Lemon & Lemongrass to the warm, comforting flavors of Banana & Cinnamon.

Other standouts include:

• The fiery kick of Ginger & Red Chili
• The tropical sweetness of Coconut & Pineapple
• The earthy, aromatic blend of Galangal & Tamarind
• The bold, complex pairing of Anise & Coffee

With each sip, guests discover the depth and complexity of Sombai’s signature liqueurs, leaving them eager to bring home a bottle or two to savor long after the tasting is over.

Purchasing Sombai and Products

As the Sombai liqueur tasting concludes, visitors eagerly peruse the on-site shop, captivated by the array of homemade products available for purchase.

Beyond the signature Sombai liqueurs, the shop offers a tempting selection of other specialty items, including honey, jams, and spices.

Visitors can pick up bottles of their favorite Sombai flavors, ranging from the zesty Ginger & Red Chili to the aromatic Coconut & Pineapple.

Guests are also encouraged to explore the diverse selection of artisanal souvenirs, such as handcrafted ceramics and textiles, providing a unique opportunity to bring a piece of Cambodian culture back home.

With ample time to browse, visitors can savor the experience and find the perfect keepsakes to commemorate their Sombai journey.

Small-Group Tour Experience

With the liqueur samples savored, visitors enjoy the intimate small-group atmosphere, eager to explore the inner workings of Sombai’s production process.

As they step into the infusion room, a sense of wonder takes hold. The guide animatedly shares insights, bringing the Sombai story to life:

• The careful selection of local ingredients
• The meticulous infusion techniques honed over generations
• The artistry and passion poured into every bottle
• The pride that infuses every step of the process

Captivated, the group moves through the facility, witnessing firsthand the dedication and craftsmanship that make Sombai liqueurs so unique.

It’s an immersive experience, a chance to connect with Cambodia’s vibrant culinary heritage.

Menu Highlights: Desserts

The Sombai liqueur menu highlights two dessert-inspired flavors: Lemon & Lemongrass and Banana & Cinnamon, offering a sweet conclusion to the tasting experience.

The Lemon & Lemongrass liqueur combines the bright, tangy notes of lemon with the subtle sweetness and herbaceous aroma of lemongrass, creating a refreshing and balanced flavor profile.

In contrast, the Banana & Cinnamon liqueur showcases the rich, creamy essence of ripe bananas, complemented by the warmth and spice of cinnamon.

Both dessert-themed offerings provide a delightful transition from the savory and fruit-forward varieties, leaving participants with a satisfying and memorable taste of Cambodia’s unique liqueur traditions.

Menu Highlights: Starters

Along With the dessert-inspired offerings, the Sombai liqueur menu highlights a variety of starter-style flavors, including:

Ginger & Red Chili
The Ginger & Red Chili liqueur offers a fiery kick.

Mango & Green Chili
The Mango & Green Chili provides a tropical twist with a subtle heat.

Galangal & Tamarind
The Galangal & Tamarind combines earthy and sour notes.

Anise & Coffee
The Anise & Coffee offers a bold, aromatic experience.

Coconut & Pineapple
The Coconut & Pineapple liqueur delivers a refreshing, island-inspired taste.

These unique blends are designed to awaken the senses and tantalize the palate.

Logistics and Meeting Point

Confirmation of the booking is provided at the time of reservation. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible. Service animals are allowed, though the experience isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers. A maximum of 10 participants are accommodated on each tour.

The meeting point is at the Sombai Cambodian Liqueur and souvenirs store in the Wat Damnak Area of Siem Reap. The tour begins and ends at the same location.

Participants should confirm the start time with the local provider prior to the experience. The cancellation policy allows for a full refund up to 24 hours before the scheduled tour.

Recap

The Sombai workshop tour offers a captivating glimpse into the artistry behind Cambodia’s renowned liqueur.

Visitors can enjoy the infusion room, savor the diverse flavors, and bring home these unique products, allowing them to experience a piece of Cambodian culinary heritage.

This small-group experience provides an engaging and informative introduction to the vibrant world of Sombai liqueur.