Trois-Rivières, or My Favorite Rum Bar

Have I ever told you about my fondness (or penchant) for rum, specifically rums from Martinique?

Between Clément, Mauny, and Trois-Rivières, I can’t decide which one I like best.

One day, a long time ago, I realized that a friend of mine was from Martinique—he swore by rum. He’d brought me a bottle of Dillon infused with local ingredients that his family had made when he’d been there. But back then, I was hardly drinking at all, for a thousand and one reasons. Still, I really appreciated his gift.

Much later, during a trip to the Philippines, I rediscovered the taste of rum with Tanduya.

Years went by, my life changed, and I met a Clément in a store—and it was as if he called out to me. From that moment on, I became a pirate! Just kidding—I simply enjoy a good aged rum.

Today, we’ve decided to go to the Trois-Rivières rum distillery since the weather isn’t exactly pleasant (no pun intended). It’s the closest rum distillery to Trois-Îlets.

Between sunshine and rain, we hit the road toward Trois-Rivières, which is a 30-minute drive from our place.

We arrived around 10 a.m., just in time to take a tour of the estate, explore the machinery, and soak up the history that continues to be rewritten here.

A Bit of History

image: Credit:https://www.troisrivieresrhum.com/ Pointe de Diamant can be seen in the distance.

It began as a sugar plantation founded in 1660 on a vast estate acquired by a royal superintendent who, one year later, fell out of favor with King Louis XIV. Then, for a little over a century, the estate—spanning more than 2,000 hectares—supplied several sugar refineries and changed hands several times.

It was in 1785 that the estate began distilling rum, thanks to a man named Marraud des Grottes. Thus, sugar production ceased permanently in the early 19th century, giving way to cane brandy managed by a powerful industrialist, Amédée Aubéry.

He modernized the site and dedicated it entirely to rum. Thus, in 1940, the traditional craftsmanship of agricultural rum made its debut on the lands of Trois Rivières. He turned it into one of Martinique’s first rum distilleries, renowned for its unique expertise in aged rums, and it is through Trois-Rivières that we are able to enjoy exceptional vintages.

Finally, the 1980s were marked by the export of rum, which established Trois-Rivières’ current reputation. Its fame spread across the seas, and in 1996, it received its first AOC designation from the Antilles.

A little over 20 years ago, production moved to Rivière Pilote, equipped with dedicated distillation columns to preserve its signature aroma.

As you can see, we’re visiting the former rum distillery, which has become an iconic tourist attraction featuring the historic machinery used to produce this rum, renowned throughout the ages.

After taking a tour of the grounds, learning about the rum-making process, and chatting with the owners of the souvenir shops along the way—and, above all, soaking in the inspiration this estate offers—we retraced our steps.

In fact, this new Trois Rivières rum was diluted with seawater, giving it a hint of saltiness that makes it truly unique!

A meticulous blend of spirits aged in different types of barrels

Aged for 5 years in oak barrels

As you can see, it’s time for a tasting. The interior of the central building has been converted into a store and tasting bar, where you’ll find the featured specialties (usually 5–6 to choose from).

There are two types of rum: one made from Vesou (for agricultural rum) and the other from molasses (for industrial rum).

If you’d like to learn more about the origins of sugarcane, its global connections, and the production process, I came across some very interesting material while researching the topic. Here’s the link:here.

I’ll leave you here—we have to go; we have some shopping to do for New Year’s. That’s right, it’s December 29th. Tomorrow, we plan to climb Mount Pelé, weather permitting. We still need to pack our things so we can head to Schœlcher tonight—it’s just easier that way.

Cheers to everyone,