Perched on the lush, volcanic island of Île de La Réunion in the Indian Ocean, the Distillerie de Savanna stands as a beacon of rum-making tradition and innovation. With roots dating back to the 19th century and a commitment to craft, terroir and quality, Savanna has carved out a distinguished place in the world of fine rums.

The History  

Savanna’s story begins on the sun-soaked sugarcane estates of western La Réunion, where Domaine de Savanna was established in the early 1800s. Officially founded around 1870, the distillery has evolved from a traditional sugar estate into a renowned rum producer. In 1992, Savanna relocated to the Bois-Rouge site in Saint-André, an important move that allowed the brand to grow and innovate while remaining rooted in its heritage.

This strategic move brought Savanna closer to the Bois-Rouge sugar factory, making it possible to seamlessly integrate sugarcane harvesting, milling, and distillation on a single site. This integration ensures maximum freshness and quality from field to bottle. 

The Artistry Behind Savanna’s Unique Character

Savanna’s production is defined by both versatility and an unwavering commitment to quality. The distillery crafts both rhum traditionnel (from molasses) and rhum agricole (from fresh sugarcane juice). Fermentation techniques span from short, clean fermentations to extended, aromatic processes that yield high-ester “Grand Arôme” rums. By using both column and pot stills, Savanna achieves an impressive spectrum of flavors and aromas.

After distillation, Savanna’s rums mature in oak casks—ranging from ex-Cognac and port to whiskey barrels—or are bottled young for lighter, vibrant expressions. A highlight of the range, Savanna Origine 1870, skillfully blends molasses-based rums aged 10 to 16 years in Cognac and port casks, offering a taste that celebrates the distillery’s rich heritage.

Style, Range & Achievements

The Savanna portfolio is impressively diverse, including:

• White and “light” rums, ideal for cocktails and refreshing mixers
• Traditional aged rums, perfect for sipping and savoring
• High-ester “Grand Arôme” rums, renowned for their bold, aromatic character
• Limited editions and single-cask bottlings, prized by collectors and connoisseurs

Savanna’s pursuit of excellence has earned it international recognition, with numerous medals and accolades from prestigious spirits competitions.

Visiting Savanna: Experience Terroir, Tradition, and Taste

Guests at Savanna can embark on immersive tours of the Bois-Rouge site—exploring lush sugarcane fields, peering into the heart of the distillery, observing fermentation tanks, and wandering through ageing cellars. Each tour concludes with a guided tasting in the on-site shop, connecting the dramatic natural surroundings of La Réunion to the artisanal craft of rum-making.

Why Savanna Matters

• Terroir & Tradition: The volcanic soils, tropical climate, and deep-rooted sugarcane heritage of La Réunion impart a distinctive island character to every Savanna rum.
• Craft Versatility: From light, mixable rums to highly aromatic high-ester spirits and luxurious aged bottlings, Savanna’s range showcases remarkable diversity.
• Heritage & Quality: After more than a century of evolution, Savanna is recognized for blending legacy with world-class craftsmanship and a relentless pursuit of quality.
• Destination & Story: A visit to Savanna offers a tangible link between raw cane, production, and the final bottle, making the brand’s story an experience to savor—not just a spirit to drink.