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River Antoine Estate Rum Distillery: A Step Back in Time

Discover the time-honored traditions of rum production at the River Antoine Estate, the Caribbean's oldest water-powered distillery since 1785.

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Experience rum production the traditional way at River Antoine Estate Rum Distillery, the oldest functioning water-powered distillery in the Caribbean, dating back to 1785. Witness the entire process from sugarcane crushing to distillation, powered by a historic waterwheel, and sample the potent, locally cherished rum.

A brief summary to River Antoine Estate Rum Distillery

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes to navigate the distillery's uneven terrain.
  • Be prepared for a potent rum tasting experience; the local rum is not for the faint of heart.
  • Bring cash, as the distillery may not accept credit cards.
  • Visit on a weekday to avoid potential crowds.
  • Consider combining your visit with a trip to nearby Lake Antoine for scenic views.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From St. George's, a taxi to River Antoine Estate Rum Distillery is a direct but relatively long journey. Taxis are readily available in St. George's. Negotiate the fare before starting your trip. The journey will take you through winding roads and beautiful scenery. Expect to pay around $30-$50 USD for a one-way trip. The journey should take approximately 1 hour.

  • Public Transport

    To reach River Antoine Estate Rum Distillery via public transport from St. George's, take a bus heading towards the north of the island. Buses are independently operated vans with route numbers displayed. You may need to transfer buses along the way. The total journey could take around 2-3 hours. Bus fares range from EC$2.50 to EC$6.50 (approximately $1-$2.40 USD) depending on the distance. Ask the conductor for assistance.

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Discover more about River Antoine Estate Rum Distillery

The River Antoine Estate Rum Distillery, nestled in Tivoli, Grenada, offers a captivating journey into the past, showcasing rum production methods that have remained virtually unchanged since 1785. As the oldest operating water-powered distillery in the Caribbean, it provides a unique glimpse into Grenada's rich cultural and industrial heritage. Visitors can witness every stage of the rum-making process, beginning with the crushing of locally grown sugarcane using a waterwheel-powered cane crusher. The extracted juice then flows through filtering screens before being hand-scooped into a series of heated vats. A wood-burning furnace heats the juice until it becomes syrupy. The syrup is then transferred to open-air vats for natural fermentation, without the addition of chemicals, sugars, or yeast. Finally, the fermented liquid is distilled using traditional Vendome pot stills. The distillery produces Rivers Royal Grenadian Rum, known for its high proof and strong, botanical taste. The rum comes in two strengths: 150 proof (75% alcohol) and 138 proof (69% alcohol). Due to its high flammability, the 150-proof rum cannot be transported on airlines. The distillery operates year-round and enjoys a strong local following. A tour of River Antoine is like stepping into a living museum, where you can witness firsthand the traditional techniques and antique equipment that have been preserved for centuries. The estate's commitment to organic and sustainable farming practices further enhances the experience.

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