Martinique agricultural rum: the essentials you need to know in 5 questions
Rum ? You love drinking it , that's for sure! However, when we talk to you about agricultural rum from Martinique , you're not sure you know what it's all about... Don't worry: you're not the only one wondering about this Caribbean brandy that fans of taste escapes love! So, at Halto, we've put together the perfect cheat sheet to answer your main questions, in less than 3 minutes of reading. Follow us, let's go to the Caribbean ! đ„
What is the difference between rum and agricultural rum?
Well, finally, what does this little adjective "agricultural" actually mean, which you sometimes see appearing on your bottle? This word is important, because there are two main families of rums: "agricultural rums" on the one hand, and "traditional rums" (also called "industrial rums" or "sugar rums") on the other. All can be born in many places around the world, and in particular in the Caribbean islands: agricultural rums from Guadeloupe, traditional rums from Cuba, industrial rums from Puerto Rico, agricultural rums from Reunion Island...
The key point to remember is that traditional rum is produced from a slightly viscous brown liquid, obtained after extracting sugar cane juice. Its name? Molasses. Agricultural rum, on the other hand, is made solely from pure sugar cane juice. Each of these two families thus has a very particular signature, which then develops into a wide aromatic palette depending on the type of aging of the rums and their colors ( white, brown, or amber rum ).
What is an AOC Martinique rum?
An AOC (appellation d'origine contrÎlée) is a French label that distinguishes products entirely produced in a defined geographical area, and therefore tied to very specific know-how. In other words, buying a Martinique rum with an AOC guarantees its origin and quality, thanks to strict specifications that must be met. Convenient, right?
Don't be surprised if you haven't come across any other AOCs for rums (unlike wines or cheeses, where AOCs are legion...): Martinique can boast of being our only overseas department to have this precious sesame for its elixirs!
What are the specifications for AOC Martinique agricultural rum?
Like a roadmap, the appellation's specifications set out the rules to follow to qualify for the Martinique AOC agricultural rum. And believe us, they're very detailed!
Among the conditions that must be met, all sugarcane must be grown, harvested, and processed on the flower island. No exceptions are possible! The same goes for the other stages of production, such as distillation, aging, and bottling. Moreover, each of these phases adheres to very specific standards, concerning the type of still, the type of wood used for the barrels, the alcohol content of the distillates, etc.
