Karukera

Karukera is a distinguished rhum agricole brand from Guadeloupe, crafted at the Domaine du Marquisat de Sainte-Marie. The distillery is renowned for its dedication to terroir and purity, using exclusively blue cane (canne bleue,  B69.566 variety)—a prized and aromatic sugar cane variety—as the foundation for its rums.

Production is rooted in the agricole tradition, using only fresh, hand-harvested sugar cane juice (pur jus de canne). Fermentation and distillation are conducted in small, artisanal batches, preserving the vibrant character of the cane. Aging takes place in Guadeloupe's tropical climate, primarily in French oak or ex-bourbon barrels, with select expressions undergoing double maturation or finishing in ex-Cognac casks for added complexity.

Karukera’s portfolio includes both vibrant white agricoles—such as the flagship “Blue Cane” white rum and limited high-proof vintage releases—and a range of aged (vieux) agricoles. Notable aged expressions are Karukera Rhum Vieux Agricole (aged around three years in small ex-bourbon barrels), L’Expression 45° (which undergoes sequential maturation in new French oak and ex-Cognac barrels), and L’Expression Brut de Fût (a robust, barrel-strength offering).

Our tasting profile: Karukera’s white agricoles are celebrated for their fresh cane aromas, intense vegetal and grassy notes, and pronounced aromatic intensity. The aged expressions reveal layers of vanilla, caramel, sweet spice, toasted oak, ripe fruit, and lingering sugar cane, with the barrel finish imparting roasted and woody undertones. Expressions aged in Cognac barrels can develop a refined, almost Cognac-like elegance, noted for their smoothness and nuanced complexity.

Karukera positions itself as a champion of terroir, cane purity, and artisanal craftsmanship. By focusing on blue cane, small-batch production, and innovative barrel aging, Karukera bridges the gap between approachable aged agricoles and rare, high-proof or vintage releases—earning acclaim among enthusiasts seeking authentic Guadeloupean rum with a sense of place.