Chalong Bay, pure cane juice rum from Phuket
Chalong Bay is a rum produced at The Distillery Phuket in Chalong, on the south-east coast of Phuket island, Thailand. It is distilled from first-press Thai sugarcane juice rather than molasses: according to the brand, less than 3% of the world's rum is made directly from sugarcane.
The distillery combines Thai raw materials with French distillation techniques. Every stage, from cane to bottle, is carried out on site in Phuket.
The cane and the still
Cane grown without pesticides
The cane comes from small local growers whom Chalong Bay has worked with for twelve years. It is grown without pesticides or chemical fertilisers, hand-harvested without field burning, and pressed immediately after cutting. According to the brand, the growers are paid above the market price.
An Armagnac-style still imported from France
The fermented juice is distilled in an Armagnac-style copper still, imported from France and direct-fired. None of the rums in the range contain additives, added sugar or artificial flavourings.
The Chalong Bay range
- Pure Series (40% ABV, 70 cl and 20 cl): the benchmark white rum, fruity and smooth.
- High Proof (57% ABV): the same cane at a higher strength, for a more concentrated expression.
- Wild Fermentation (49% ABV): fermented solely by the cane's natural yeasts.
- Tropical Notes (40% ABV): Thai Sweet Basil, Lemongrass, Kaffir Lime and Cinnamon, steam-infused during distillation.
- White Spiced (40% ABV): a white spiced rum infused with nine natural ingredients.
- Barrel Aged: Double Barrel (47% ABV) and American Double Barrel (51% ABV).
- Lunar Series: limited single cask editions, bottled at cask strength (Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake).
How to choose
To discover the distillery, Pure Series is the place to start; the Discovery Gift Set brings together Pure Series, Double Barrel and Thai Sweet Basil in 20 cl bottles. Lovers of characterful white rums will turn to High Proof or Wild Fermentation. Tropical Notes suit those looking for the aromas of Thai cuisine, without sugar. The aged rums and the Lunar Series are aimed at sipping-rum enthusiasts and collectors.
Awards
Chalong Bay describes itself as Thailand's most awarded craft spirit. Pure Series has notably received a Double Gold medal at the SIP Awards 2026, gold at the Berlin International Spirits Competition 2025 (95 points) and a gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2018.