martinique is renowned for producing some of the best rums in the world, thanks to its tropical climate and exceptional terroir. renting a car in martinique will allow you to take a rum tasting tour around the island, an unmissable experience for spirit enthusiasts. you will discover the diversity and richness of martiniquais agricultural rum. by car, you can easily explore historic distilleries, savor rums with varied aromas, and learn more about the production processes that contribute to the international fame of this tropical nectar. here is a selection of the best distilleries to visit for a rum tasting tour in martinique.
1. Habitation clément (le françois)
l’habitation clément is one of the most emblematic distilleries in martinique. set in an enchanting setting, this former sugarcane plantation offers an immersive experience in the history and production of agricultural rum. after touring the historic buildings and gardens, you can taste a varied range of aged rums and exceptional vintages. maison clément is also known for its contemporary art pieces that punctuate the estate.
2. Distillerie depaz (saint-pierre)
nestled at the foot of montagne pelée, distillerie depaz combines the natural beauty of its surroundings with a long tradition of rum production. a visit to the distillery will allow you to discover the history of this plantation, rebuilt after the volcanic eruption of 1902. you will have the opportunity to taste rums aged in oak barrels, renowned for their rich aromas and complexity.
3. La Mauny Distillery (Rivière-Pilote)
Located in the south of the island, La Mauny Distillery invites you to discover all the steps in rum production, from cane cutting to distillation. La Mauny produces a wide range of agricultural rums, ranging from white rum to exceptional aged rums. The visit ends with a tasting in the shop, where you can appreciate the various aromatic notes of the rums produced on-site.
4. Trois Rivières Distillery (Sainte-Luce)
Trois Rivières Distillery is one of the oldest in Martinique, producing agricultural rum since the 17th century. Located in the municipality of Sainte-Luce, this distillery offers guided tours that trace the history of the estate and the making of their rums. You will be able to taste several vintages and discover the unique characteristics of Trois Rivières rums, known for their fruity and spicy flavors.
5. Neisson Distillery (Le Carbet)
Founded in 1931, Neisson Distillery is one of the smallest distilleries in Martinique, but it is renowned for the quality of its rums. Located near the village of Carbet, Neisson produces rums with refined aromas, crafted with passion and expertise. The distillery tour provides an opportunity to learn more about artisanal production methods and to taste their authentic rums.
6. JM Distillery (Macouba)
JM Distillery, located in the north of the island in Macouba, is a must-visit for rum enthusiasts. Nestled in lush surroundings, the distillery is surrounded by sugar cane plantations and offers an authentic visit that immerses you in the history and production of agricultural rum. Tasting their rums, known for their finesse and exceptional quality, is a true sensory journey.
7. Distillerie Saint James (Sainte-Marie)
La Distillerie Saint James, fondée en 1765, est l'une des plus anciennes distilleries de la Martinique. Elle propose un musée du rhum où vous pourrez en apprendre davantage sur l'histoire de la distillation dans l'île. Après avoir visité la distillerie et ses jardins, vous pourrez déguster les rhums Saint James, qui se distinguent par leur caractère puissant et leur richesse aromatique. Le domaine accueille également des événements culturels tout au long de l'année.
8. Distillerie Dillon (Fort-de-France)
Située à Fort-de-France, la Distillerie Dillon est l'une des plus accessibles depuis la capitale. Cette distillerie produit du rhum depuis le XIXe siècle et propose des visites guidées pour découvrir le processus de fabrication. Vous pourrez déguster une gamme de rhums blancs, ambrés et vieux, ainsi que des punchs et liqueurs, dans une ambiance conviviale et chaleureuse.
9. La Favorite Distillery (Fort-de-France)
La Favorite is a family-owned distillery that has been producing agricultural rum since 1842. Located not far from Fort-de-France, it is distinguished by its traditional architecture and artisanal production methods. You can explore the rum-making process, visit the active distillery, and taste their rums with subtle yet powerful aromas.
