PRESS RELEASES
The Monin Cup made an electrifying return in 2024 and was held on June 14. With a legacy of pushing bartending boundaries, this year's competition was a standout showcase, featuring the talent of Rosewood Phnom Penh, who dominated the top three.
July 05, 2024
This year's competition carried the theme "Low is More," reflecting an era that now embraces the No/Low-ABV trend. As we enter a brave new world of alternative drinking experiences, up and coming bartenders have been challenged to create innovative, unique and unforgettable no/low-alcoholic beverages. This year’s competition was not only about taste, but also the story behind each cocktail creation.
The competition challenged participants to evolve their mixology craft into the realm of storytelling, where creativity became the cornerstone of the judging process. Contestants were encouraged to break free from convention, think outside the shaker, and infuse their creations with the essence of the unconventional.
Rosewood Phnom Penh was thrilled to introduce Sela Sum to the competition who finished in second place. Sela is a rising star at Sora. Originally from Kampong Cham province, Sela discovered his passion for bartending in late 2019. Drawing inspiration from the revered Jerry Thomas' Bartenders Guide, he embarked on his mixology mission to become renowned in his chosen field.
Sela believes that every cocktail tells a unique story, and by infusing each creation with carefully-selected ingredients and tasting notes, he succeeds in captivating the senses and delivering unforgettable experiences to his guests. "Sustainability is at the heart of my creations," says Sela. "I take pride in showcasing the richness of flavors while ensuring minimal impact on the environment.”
Sela’s journey through the 2024 Monin Cup was marked by the creation of three distinct cocktails over three rounds. Each was inspired by a personal narrative and childhood memory, ultimately culminating in a captivating twist on the classic Daiquiri.
Another exceptional talent from Rosewood Phnom Penh who featured in the competition was Sora’s Sopheavong Sokkhoeun, who clinched third place. He emerged as a standout with his exceptional cocktail, "Banana Blossom." Originally from Takeo province, Sokkhoeun's journey through mixology began in 2019 at Sora, and his visionary creation paid homage to his mother's inspiring story and his commitment to sustainability.
"Banana Blossom" mirrors Sokkhoeun's own roots, drawing inspiration from his mother's inspiring story of growing and selling fruit and vegetables, particularly bananas, at the local market. This deeply personal narrative is woven into the fabric of his cocktail, imbuing it with a sense of tradition, resilience, and the enduring spirit of Cambodian culture. “Crafting this drink with a focus on sustainability is not just a choice; it's a responsibility to honor the past while shaping a more mindful mixology future," said Sokkhoeun.
To enjoy Sela and Sokkhoeun’s creations for yourself, visit Sora on level 37 of Rosewood Phnom Penh. For reservations or information, please call +855 23 936 888 or email phnompenh@rosewoodhotels.com
Sora is open daily from 5 p.m. to midnight, with last orders called at 11:45 p.m.
