River Antoine Estate

Established since 1785, River Estate is Grenada's oldest rum distillery.

It also has the oldest working water mill in the Caribbean.

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€0.00 - €80.00

Alcohol

69 % ABV - 75 % ABV

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Located on the island of Grenada, River Antoine is a site with a rich world heritage and represents an authentic testament to local history and culture. Between its magnificent natural landscapes and its heritage to preserve, this unique place invites you to discover the fascinating world of rum and sugarcane.

The captivating history of River Antoine

In the heart of a green and lush environment lies this distillery founded in 1785 by French settlers. The uniqueness of this site comes from the presence of many relics that echo the thriving past of the region and its intense sugarcane production. Among these relics are water and windmills, as well as an old chimney that attests to the site's industrial character.

Sugarcane: A cornerstone of Grenadian history

As the primary source of income for Grenada, sugarcane played a key role in the island's economy over the centuries. It was grown in local plantations before being transformed into sugar or rum through ancestral processes. Furthermore, sugarcane remains a strong symbol of Grenadian identity, as it is omnipresent in culinary traditions, festivals, and popular rites.

A well-preserved heritage at River Antoine

The historical significance of River Antoine has been maintained through strict conservation measures for buildings and the surrounding natural landscape. As a result, the entire site enjoys a prestigious world heritage label. These efforts allow visitors and locals to appreciate the importance of preserving this heritage for future generations.

Main constructions of the distillery

  1. The water mill: Dating back to 1785, it is a true masterpiece of hydraulic engineering that still operates today.
  2. The chimney: A testament to the former industrial facilities dedicated to sugarcane processing, it recalls the colonial era when Grenada was a significant economic hub.
  3. The furnace: Used to extract sugarcane juice, it is heated to produce a syrup intended for rum production.

These historical buildings stand as witnesses to Grenada's rich and captivating past, which history enthusiasts will surely appreciate.

Admiring local rum production

One of the most intriguing aspects of visiting River Antoine is undoubtedly the chance to closely observe the artisanal process that turns sugarcane into a delicious nectar. The rum distillation there is still carried out using traditional methods that have persisted since its foundation.

Key stages of rum production

  • Crushing of the sugarcane: This first step involves extracting the sugar-rich juice from the cane by grinding it using mills.
  • Fermentation: The collected juice is then mixed with water and undergoes a fermentation process, producing an alcoholic substance called "vinasse".
  • Distillation: The vinasse is subsequently heated in a still to produce a distillate with about 70% alcohol by volume.
  • Aging: To achieve a flavorful rum, the precious liquid is aged in oak barrels for several years.

Beyond discovering this ancient method, the guided tour offered at River Antoine also provides the opportunity to taste this iconic rum, a true national pride of Grenada.

River Antoine: A site of many riches

With its captivating history, natural beauty, and meticulously preserved world heritage, River Antoine stands as a cultural gem that invites immersion into Grenada's fascinating past. Visiting this distillery is a unique experience for those wishing to explore the legacy of sugarcane and rum, two essential symbols of the island.