Rum is very popular in Thailand; in fact the national spirit is a distilled beverage akin to a rum. Called Mekhong, this is distilled from molasses and rice and then blended with an assortment of Thai herbs and spices; distillation takes place in both pot and column stills. With a copper color and aromas of orange peel, balsamic, soy and tobacco, this has a spicy, peppery finish. This is meant for mixing in exotic cocktails. There are various versions of rum; spiced rums are very popular. Offering sweet tropical fruit and subtle cream flavors, these are ideal for summer cocktails. Also produced are VSOP brandies and whiskeys.