Distilleries and rum factories
The distilleries and rum factories of the Guadeloupe Islands
The Guadeloupe Islands are the land of rum. For centuries, this spirit has been produced here in the strictest tradition inherited from the past. Each distillery has its own particularity, and all offer tours and tastings. As the archipelago's industrial and cultural heritage, they are the pride of the Guadeloupean people. They are spread across three islands of our archipelago. The rums produced by these establishments all have their own character and different aromas.
Basse-Terre 's distilleries
The Bologne distillery is located on the steep slopes at the foot of the volcano. Its industrial silhouette contrasts with the bucolic setting of its surrounding fields.The name Bologne has been used here since the 17th century, but it was only in the 19th century that the Bologne distillery turned its attention to rum production.This makes it the oldest of our islands.Today, the distillery produces exceptional rums, and enthusiasts recognize the scent of volcanic soil.The distillery opens its doors to visitors to take them to the heart of production.
Nestled in the hills above Petit-Bourg, the Montebello distillery is a place of tradition. Today, the fourth generation of Marsolle is at the helm of the Carrère distillery, which markets its rum under the Montebello appellation. Specializing in old and white rums, the distillery now offers a range of tasty variations, such as “Ovation”. Visits are only possible in the morning.
The Longueteau Distillery is a unique place. On the Capesterre-Belle-Eau plain, between the sea and the Soufrière volcano, cane fields grow on rich, volcanic soil. This location gives the distillery an intoxicating charm. Longueteau was the last to operate with traditional machinery. Rum lovers often speak of this rum with particular affection. The visit is instructive, and the tasting warm and inviting.
On the heights of Sainte-Rose, in a setting where time seems to have stood still, Domaine de Séverin is a plunge back in time. The paddle wheel is still there, as are the old vats. You can climb aboard the little train for a sumptuous view of the sea and pineapple fields.
The Distillerie Reimonenq is a great place to learn more about rum. In addition to the distillery, which produces an aged rum with liquorice aromas, you can visit the rum museum, which traces the production process and history of rum. It's a visit for the whole family, so everyone can learn a lot about this historic Guadeloupean product.
The archipelago's latest distillery is located in Goyave. Papa Rouyo's identity is based on the authenticity and tradition of the “master cane growers”. It praises exceptional lands and products, which are the ultimate guarantee of quality rum. The distillery is open to visitors on Wednesdays and Fridays, and promises an immersive dive into the heart of the distillery.
Distilleries of Marie-Galante
The Père Labat distillery is located in Saint-Louis de Marie-Galante. Under this famous name, the distillery is actually discreet, but remains a must for rum lovers. The distillery's name has been used in a variety of ways, and anyone walking around Marie-Galante is bound to see the slogan “Ici c'est Labat” (“Here is Labat”). The fish distillery, which markets rum under the Labat name, welcomes the curious in a small wooden hut to taste its production.
Strolling through the Grand-Bourg countryside, amidst the cane fields stands a magnificently restored mill. You can't go wrong, it's Bellevue. While tradition may seem to prevail at first glance, it's important to note that Bellevue is resolutely looking to the future by investing in ecology. Indeed, it is the only eco-friendly distillery in the Caribbean. You won't be able to miss the distillery's emblem, which is dotted all over the premises and represents 59° in the most vibrant of colors. A fascinating visit.
The third distillery on Marie-Galante is Bielle. Also located in the commune of Grand-Bourg, it is one of the island's major tourist attractions. It's not uncommon to find vendors selling coconut boulders, pâtés and fresh juice. Inside the distillery, educational displays explain the rum-making process. If you're there at cane-cutting time, you may see ox carts arriving to deliver the last of the hand-cut cane. A pottery workshop is also on site, and tasting takes place in the shade of a small wooden hut.
Distilleries in Grande-Terre
For many years, the Damoiseau distillery was the only one on Grande-Terre. Located in Moule, it is the work of three generations who have conscientiously maintained the rum-making tradition. The limestone soil on which the cane grows gives a unique character to the rum produced here. The store on the factory site lets you see the full range of products bearing the Damoiseau name. The colorful machinery is a must-see during your visit.
Gwadinina is a young distillery founded in 2002. You'll recognize its white rum, which is sold with a piece of fresh cane inside, which is what makes it so special. This production is 100% artisanal, from harvesting to labeling. The Oujagir family are proud to show you around their facilities, and talk passionately about the secrets of their production. Of course, tasting is part of this rich visit.
The unique rum distillery of Guadeloupe Islands
The Karukera rum distillery is the only one in the archipelago. Its role is to perfect the exceptional products that are sugarcane juice distillates. A rum distillery is the place where rums are aged. It is located on the Marquisat de Sainte-Marie estate in Capesterre-Belle-Eau.
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