River Antoine Rivers 69° is a landmark rum, hailing from the island of Grenada . The distillery is one of the oldest in the Caribbean, having operated continuously since the early 18th century. This living museum still uses no electricity, relying instead on a waterwheel and bagasse fire. The River Antoine distillery uses organic sugarcane , hand-cut by local farmers.
One of the unique aspects of their rum production is its raw material: a light cane syrup produced on-site in their traditional boiling house. This syrup is fermented for 6 to 10 days using wild yeasts. It is then distilled in John Dore stills , modified using parts from the Vendôme manufacturer.
The rum is sold locally within 24 hours, at 75% proof. The lighter version, at 69%, is intended for tourists, as this degree makes it suitable for air travel. It's "thanks" to COVID that we now have the chance to taste this rum in Europe. As tourists were scarce in 2020, the distillery was kind enough to export part of its production.
Jérémie's tasting notes
On the nose: We start with aromas of white flowers, sugarcane and a saline note.
On the palate: Roasted pineapple and black olives are present. The salty note, perceived on the nose, is then accompanied by a peppery bitterness that lingers until the finish.
The finish: with mineral and spicy notes
