Martinican Rum

In Martinique the style of rum made is rhum agricole, a distinctive spirit made from freshly pressed sugarcane juice rather than molasses. Produced under strict French AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) regulations, it undergoes careful fermentation and distillation. The aroma of rhum agricole is typified by floral and fruity notes with lots of fresh cane, a bright, vegetal profile. The rum can be bottled unaged (blanc) or aged. The tropical climate accelerates the interaction between the spirit and the French oak barrels, leading to a faster maturation process compared to spirits aged in cooler climates. This results in rums with deep, rich colours and flavours that can range from toasted nuts and dried fruits to more subtle notes of vanilla and spices. This rum is often categorized by its terroir, much like French wine, with attention paid to how the local soil, climate, and sugarcane variety affect the final product. It is typically enjoyed as a sipping rum or in cocktails like the Ti’ Punch. Rum production is deeply ingrained in the culture of Martinique. The island is home to a variety of distilleries, some run by the same families for generationseach, each with its own story and approach.