Cerevisia CRAFT Brewhouse originated in Phnom Penh when the founding brewer made his exodus from the cradle of civilization, and into the heart of Cambodia.  I recently met with the founder, Erich, who has introduced me the the Cambodian homebrewing community!  I’m super thankful for his insights – looking forward to homebrewing here in Cambodia soon.

Cerevisia Craft Beer offerings.

In 2013, a few more like minded imbibers joined their brew-master in a common goal.  They roamed Phnom Penh in search of a craft beer, microbrewery, or libation reminiscent of home.  Due to the limited options, they took matters into their own hands and began crafting full bodied beers with iconic aromatics and a pleasing finish.  They don’t cut corners.  You will not find them in every tap room in Phnom Penh, only the finest.

Checking out Botanico for the first time – and not the last!

Beer is the cause for civilized society, technological innovation, and manages to keep them going.  Just like Kermit’s plan for the show was to share jokes and put a smile on everyone’s face, their plan for Craft beer is to share a good ale, and help you find joy in the bottom of your glass.

I’ve been to Botanico a few times, here is what I’ve tried:

• Irish Red Ale “Priteni” – Malt forward, full bodied, gentle bitterness, and velvety finish.
• American Amber Ale “Road Trip” – Dark copper color with amber hues.  Aromatic nose of melon, malt, and sweet caramel.  Balanced malt and hops palate on a toasted biscuit backdrop.  Slightly bitter finish that comes away cleanly.
• IPA “Apollo C” – An ale for a true “hop head.”  This beer has a hop forward bitterness, medium body, and a citrusy nature.  I never thought I would miss IPAs but being in Cambodia has definitely made me appreciate hops more than ever.
• Honey Pale Ale “Rattanak” – With a fragrance of Cambodian honeysuckle, this medium bodied ale balances even bitterness with hits of caramel malt and honey.  A strong, clean finish closing with a “taste of honey.”  This is definitely my favorite beer from Cerevisia.
• Porter “Dark Star” – The silky feel of this medium bodied brew is layered with roasted coffee and chocolate flavors.  Hops balance the sweetness with a finish that begs for more.  We don’t get many “dark days, dark beers” here in Cambodia.  But if you are every a little homesick – this is definitely the beer to warm you up.

Botanico is a wine and beer garden restaurant/bar. They serve great food, wine, and the much-loved “Cerevisia CRAFT beer”, which is brew locally. They also host community events.  They serve lunch and dinner and have live music on Friday and Saturday evenings.  Also, their space is pet friendly, so even Bullet has been there!

Entrance to Botanico.

Evening: Their services focus on the bar offerings of wine and CRAFT beer! They also serve mixed drinks and cocktails. Their menu includes a well-rounded selection of food that pairs well with our drinks. Several vegetarian offerings are included.

Perfect evening in Phnom Penh, with craft beer in hand.

Daytime: They are open all day for coffee, lunch, dinner, snacks, and drinks. Their lush garden space also offers private Workspace offices and their full menu right in the heart of Phnom Penh. Combining the best elements of a home office and a café, their workspaces offer the ideal solution for the professional freelancer.

Workspaces include:
– Turnkey private, air-conditioned offices.
– Shared common areas for socializing, meetings, and events.
– Service staff.
– Color printer.
– WI-FI access.
– Coffee & refreshments menu.
– 24/7 security.

Have you been to Cambodia?  What had been your favorite craft beer there?

What is a girl to do when her best friend, Beckie, comes to visit her in Cambodia?  Check out the local breweries of course!  Himawari Microbrewery is the 1st and only microbrewery launched by it’s 5-star hotel in Cambodia. Made from the finest malt and hops, the beers crafted here are unique in flavor and of the highest quality.  You can also enjoy an idyllic experience outdoors, at the Garden Terrace overlooks the Mekong Delta with stunning views and a fresh breeze.

Himawari Microbrewery’s brewmaster, Neo, has had many years of brewing experience and has designed five exclusive brews, two of which have won international awards. There’s definitely a craft beer for every palate.

Jetlag and beers – great combination.

Here is what we tried:

Apsara Gold – An Australasian-style pale ale brewed using a blend of Nelson Sauvin and Cascade hops.  Light and delicate in malt flavor with a distinct hops aroma.  This beer is the winner of the International Beer Competition 2013 for the category of Australasian / International Style Pale Ale.

Gem & Jade – A golden ale that showcases the balance of malt and hops flavor.  The combination of Pacific Gem and Pacific Jade hops together with five different malts gives this beer its unique profile.  This beer is the winner of the Asia Beer Awards 2013 for the category of Pale / Amber Ale.  This is hands down my favorite beer at the Himawari Microbrewery.

OatS – A sweet stout that is low in bitterness but robust in oatmeal flavor.

CentenniALE – An American style IPA that highlights Centennial Hops.  High in bitterness with residual malt sweetness.

Have you ever been to Cambodia?  What was your favorite beer?