The Development of Creative Drinks from Rammarach Liquor of Nakhon Phanom Province

Abstract

          This qualitative study, conducted as action research, aimed to develop creative beverage recipes that reflect the unique cultural identity of Nakhon Phanom Province by using Rammarach liquor as the main ingredient. It is regarded as the first research initiative to transform Rammarach liquor into a signature cocktail representing the province. The research process comprised four stages: 1) identifying the province’s identity through focus group discussions with ten key informants who possess expertise in local traditions, culture, and indigenous products; 2) formulating and developing beverage recipes; 3) testing and evaluating the quality of the recipes by three beverage specialists using the standard evaluation criteria of the International Bartenders Association (IBA); and 4) refining and finalizing the prototype recipe.
           The results of the study revealed that Nakhon Phanom Province has a distinctive identity in terms of faith and religion, including That Phanom Pagoda and Phaya Si Sattanakharat, as well as cultural traditions such as the Illuminated Boat Festival and the worship dances of nine tribes and two ethnic groups, alongside the riverside way of life along the Mekong River. The province also features GI-registered local products, including Tha Uthen pineapples, NP-1 lychee, and Rammarach liquor. This data was employed to develop two prototype beverage recipes: the Illuminated Boat Cocktail, noted for its flavor and balance (= 4.67), and the Phanom Rampan Cocktail, distinguished for its visual appeal (= 4.60). Both recipes were evaluated at a high to very high quality level, and the t-test results (n = 3) confirmed statistically significant differences in the assessments at the 0.05 level.
          The development of beverages from Rammarach liquor helps preserve local wisdoms and create a signature cocktail that reflects the identity of Nakhon Phanom. It can be applied in hotels, restaurants, beverage bars, and tourism activities, offering opportunities for commercial expansion and cultural tourism. This initiative helps increase value, build local branding, and elevate the province into a distinctive and sustainable creative tourism destination.