The origins of sugarcane are in Southeast Asia, so the Venezuelan owners of this beloved rum distillery see themselves as bringing the tradition full circle. Samai opens to visitors on Thursday nights for lavish parties, typically with guest bartenders and live music. The artisan rums, including one with Kampot pepper, taste far superior to mass-market spirits.
If you can't make it Thursday, you can still purchase a bottle from the Samai Store across the street (open weekdays from 9am to noon and 2pm to 5pm). Private tours can also be arranged by appointment.