River Antoine Estate Rum Distillery: A Step Back in Time

The River Antoine Estate Rum Distillery, nestled in the northeastern parish of St. Patrick, is a living museum of rum production. Established in 1785, it stands as the oldest functioning water-powered distillery in the Caribbean. A visit here is a journey back in time, offering an authentic glimpse into Grenada's rich rum-making heritage. The distillery uses methods that have remained virtually unchanged for centuries. A historic waterwheel, powered by the nearby River Antoine, drives the mill that crushes locally grown sugarcane to extract its juice. The leftover sugarcane stalks, known as bagasse, are dried in the sun and then used as fuel for the furnace that heats the pot stills. This commitment to organic and sustainable practices results in rums known for their strong flavor and high proof. Visitors can take a guided tour to witness every step of the rum-making process, from the crushing of the cane to the fermentation and distillation. Knowledgeable guides share the history of the estate and the importance of rum in Grenadian culture. At the end of the tour, you'll have the opportunity to sample the estate's signature rums, including the potent 75% and 69% proof varieties. The distillery typically produces around 500 bottles a day, and the locals consume all of it.