River Antoine Estate: A Step Back in Time

River Antoine Estate Rum Distillery, nestled in the northeastern parish of St. Patrick, offers a captivating journey into Grenada's rum-making heritage. Established in 1785, it stands as the oldest functioning rum distillery in the Caribbean, where time seems to have stood still. This historic estate provides an authentic glimpse into the traditional methods of rum production, unchanged for centuries. Visitors can witness the entire rum-making process, from the harvesting of sugarcane to the final bottling. The original waterwheel, still in operation, powers the distillery, crushing locally grown sugarcane to extract its juice. The boiler, fueled by bagasse (the solid residue from the cane crusher), distills the fermented juice, creating River Antoine Rum, famous for its potency and rich flavor. A tour of the distillery offers a unique blend of history, culture, and craftsmanship. Knowledgeable guides share the fascinating history of the estate and the importance of rum in Grenadian culture. At the end of the tour, visitors have the opportunity to sample the estate’s legendary rums, including the signature 75% and 69% proof varieties.