ItaCham proudly supported an extraordinary culinary and cultural experience with the successful hosting of the “Zýmē Winemaker Dinner,” presented by iDeal Distribution Southeast Asia in Phnom Penh, at the amazing The Winds Rooftop Bar & Lounge – Fairfield by Marriott Phnom Penh. The event brought to life the spirit and heritage of Italian winemaking through a specially crafted six-course Italian dinner, perfectly paired with a curated selection of Zýmē wines, offering guests an unforgettable journey through Italian taste and tradition, guided by the expertise of Mr. Alberto Recupero.
Founded in the hills of the Valpolicella region of northern Italy, Zýmē is the creation of winemaker Celestino Gaspari. The name “Zýmē” — ancient Greek for “yeast” — captures the winery’s philosophy: wine as a living process of nature, transformation and authenticity. Zýmē wines are crafted in subterranean cellars carved from sandstone quarries that date back to the 15th century — a setting where tradition meets terroir, and where human care blends with the natural rhythms of the land. Under the stewardship of Zýmē founder Celestino Gaspari, Zýmē has built a reputation for wines that reflect the true character of Valpolicella’s soil, climate and grape heritage — wines defined by “readability,” balance, and respect for nature’s pace.
In Cambodia, iDeal Distribution Southeast Asia brings Zýmē’s wines to Phnom Penh. Since launching in 2023, iDeal Cambodia has established itself as a premier importer of Italian wines — representing some 40 Italian producer-brands and about 140 labels, with a focus on supplying high-quality wines and spirits to hotels, restaurants, bars, and retail operators. Their involvement in this dinner underscores their commitment to elevating Italy’s wine culture in Cambodia and introducing discerning consumers to the authentic taste of Italian terroir.
The dinner took place at Fairfield by Marriott Phnom Penh, with hosting support from The Winds Rooftop Bar & Lounge, and welcomed guests to an evening of refined Italian gastronomy and wine. Participants had the rare opportunity to meet Mr. Alberto Recupero, Wine Storyteller and Export Manager at Zýmē, who guided them through an engaging sensorial journey across Zýmē’s wines, sharing the stories, philosophy, and heritage behind each label. ItaCham also extends its sincere appreciation to Ms. Luisa Gentile, Executive Director of ItaCham, for representing the Chamber at the event and contributing to the strengthening of cultural ties between Italy and Cambodia. Raising a glass with every course, the evening proved to be far more than a dinner — it was a true celebration of Italian wine, culture, and the joy of shared experiences.
Contact iDeal Distribution at: luca.d@idealcambodia.com
Video and Photos Credits: The Winds Rooftop Bar & Lounge – Fairfield by Marriott Phnom Penh.
