“Master of Craft: A Brewing Competition” Celebrates the Excellence of Cambodian Craft Breweries

Phnom Penh, Cambodia – May 26, 2024 – Botanico Craft Beer Garden was the epicenter of excitement and innovation on May 25, 2024, as it hosted the highly anticipated “Master of Craft: A Brewing Competition.” Organized by the Craft Beer Association of Cambodia (CBAC), the event saw 12 craft breweries from across the region compete in a unique and challenging brewing contest focused on IPAs.

Each participating brewery was tasked with creating an IPA that prominently featured the Vic Secret hop variety, which constituted at least 50% of the total hop bill. The essential hops and malt were generously provided by the event’s main sponsors, HMG, Barth-Haas, and Castle Malting.

The competition featured a dual-rating system, with 30% of the overall score determined by the enthusiastic crowd and 70% by a distinguished tasting panel of international experts and VIPs with deep ties to the craft beer industry. The esteemed panel included:

• Perry Lam, founder and master brewer of H.K. Lovecraft, Hong Kong, representing Castle Malting

• Lennart Paul-Pax, technical sales manager of Barth-Haas

• Ms. Hanh Tran, technical support specialist of HMG

• Ms. Nhi Mai, senior brewer at East West Brewing in Vietnam

• Chef Ruth, Cambodian Michelin star chef

• Thiago Teixeira, legendary Khun Khmer fighter

• Seng Samrithsak, young entrepreneur, bespoke tailor, and craft beer enthusiast.

The competition’s goal was to showcase the high caliber of Cambodian craft breweries and to engage the audience by allowing them to judge and discuss the beers with friends. The event successfully attracted a diverse crowd of both Khmer locals and expatriates, introducing many to this innovative concept for the first time.

After an evening of intense competition and camaraderie, the winners were announced:

• Gold: Project Brews

• Silver: Botanico Brewing Co.

• Bronze: Notorious Bong

Project Brews emerged victorious with their expertly crafted NEIPA, securing the gold medal. Botanico Brewing Co. took home the silver with a well-balanced American IPA, while Notorious Bong’s impressive Cold IPA earned them the bronze.

The feedback from guests, brewers, and sponsors was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees praising the event’s organization and the high quality of the beers presented. The CBAC and its members expressed their satisfaction with the event’s success and the enthusiastic turnout.

“We are thrilled with the outcome of ‘Master of Craft: A Brewing Competition.’ The participation and response from the crowd have been fantastic, highlighting the growing appreciation for craft beer in Cambodia. Next year, we’ll definitely do the event again,” said Marco Gunther, CEO of Botanico Brewing Co. and member of the board of CBAC.

Ms. Velvet Nguyen, account manager of the main sponsor HMG said this: “This is a very friendly and impactful event for the craft beer market in Cambodia and we hope with the sponsporship, CBAC will be strengthen and create more events or competitions like this in the future. We’re more than happy to be a part and proud to support excellence in every pour.”

For more information, please contact:

Craft Beer Association of Cambodia (CBAC)

Email: [email protected] Phone: +855 (0)69 826 932

Botanico Craft Beer Garden

Email: [email protected] Phone: +855 (0)87 869 192

About CBAC: The Craft Beer Association of Cambodia (CBAC) is dedicated to

promoting and supporting the craft beer industry in Cambodia. Through events, education, and advocacy, CBAC aims to elevate the craft beer scene in the region and foster a community of passionate brewers and enthusiasts.

About Botanico Craft Beer Garden: Botanico Craft Beer Garden is Phnom Penh’s

premier destination for craft beer lovers. Featuring a diverse selection of Botanico Brewing Co.’s beers, Botanico offers a unique atmosphere for enjoying quality beer and good company.