Mauritian rum was first taken to a showcase in London in 2011 at the RUMFEST and was received with scepticism, but it is the newest thing taking the spirits world by storm.
An Introduction
The island is mostly known for Mauritius resorts and honeymoon packages, but the rum in Mauritius is a very recent industry and is still on its way making a reputation for itself.
Historical Background
Before the Dutch colonised Mauritius, it was uninhabited. A colony was established in 1638 and deer and sugarcane were introduced later. The island was abandoned in 1710. But it was the French that managed to successfully colonise it.
Agricole, Traditional
There was a misconception that Mauritius wasn’t allowed to make rum until 2006 but that is not the case. Using molasses taken from sugarcane was never banned and some can trace their origins as far back as 1819.
Production
In order to make Agricole rum, the locals grow a variety of both red and yellow sugarcane. Harvests take place in summer and goes on from sunrise to sunset. You can go visit these plantations if you ask your local hotels like Anantara Iko Mauritius.
Tropical Flavours
In order to stand out among the competition, Mauritius infuses their rum with pineapples, coconuts, passion fruit and vanilla beans. This is why the rum is such a hit outside the little island.
