SAINT JAMES - Old Rum - 18 years - 43%
The Saint-James Distillery is located in the heart of Martinique, an exceptional island renowned for the quality of its agricultural rums. Its history begins with Reverend Edmond Lefébure, then Superior Father at the Brothers of Charity convent and passionate about chemistry. Quickly, he identified the unique potential of the eaux-de-vie made from locally grown sugar cane and started the production of this exceptional spirit himself. In 1973, the Cointreau house integrated Saint-James Rums into its portfolio by centralizing production in Sainte-Marie. Since 2003, the distillery has belonged to the La Martiniquaise group, guaranteeing the transmission of this traditional know-how.
Saint James rum is made from a fermentation followed by distillation in a Creole column of pure sugar cane juice harvested locally. This production method, labeled A.O.C Rhum de la Martinique, gives each bottle a deep aromatic richness, perfectly suited for aging in oak barrels. No sweeteners or colorants are allowed, ensuring total authenticity. The distillery is also committed to a dynamic of circular and sustainable economy to limit its environmental impact: the adjacent cane fields reduce transport distances and thus CO2 emissions, the bagasse - fibrous residue from pressing - is used as fuel to supply steam to the distillation columns and mills, while also being valued as compost or converted into electricity via a turbo-alternator. Furthermore, the vinasse, water from distillation, is treated and reused for irrigation of the plantations, illustrating an exemplary ecological model.
This exclusive 2024 reference, offered by Clos des Spiritueux, celebrates a major novelty: an exceptional agricultural rum aged 18 years in American oak ex-Bourbon barrels, carefully refined in the historic Saint James cellars. Its depth, balance, and aromatic complexity make it a must-have for discerning lovers of authentic and refined old rums.
