ReimonenQ
ReimonenQ Rum is a distinguished, family-owned distillery established in 1916 by Joseph Reimonenq on the Bellevue estate in Sainte-Rose, Guadeloupe. Now managed by Léopold Reimonenq and his descendants, it stands as one of the island’s enduring rum houses—revered for blending deep-rooted tradition with modern innovation. Over a century of family stewardship has shaped ReimonenQ into a benchmark for quality in Guadeloupean agricole rum.
Production & Raw Materials
Production centers on the use of fresh, locally grown sugar cane, following the agricole method. Cane is hand-cut from Guadeloupean fields, then swiftly transported and crushed within hours to capture and preserve vibrant aromas and the essence of terroir.
Sustainable agriculture is a cornerstone of ReimonenQ’s philosophy. The distillery collaborates with INRA (the French National Institute for Agricultural Research). It implements environmentally friendly practices such as vinasse reuse, soil preservation, and responsible water management, ensuring the longevity of Guadeloupe’s cane-growing heritage.
Fermentation occurs in open vats for 36–48 hours, utilizing a combination of natural and selected yeasts. This process encourages the development of layered, aromatic profiles that set ReimonenQ’s rums apart for their expressiveness and finesse.
Distillation is performed using a double stainless steel column still with copper components, designed for precise control over degassing, distillation, concentration, and extraction. Select processes utilize indirect heating of vesou (cane juice) via a heat exchanger coil, preserving the delicate character of the raw material while ensuring a clean, expressive spirit.
Aging & Styles
ReimonenQ’s portfolio includes both vibrant white (unaged) agricoles—such as the acclaimed “Coeur de Chauffe” at 50% ABV—and a captivating range of aged (“vieux”) rums. Each expression reflects a commitment to capturing the full spectrum of cane character, from fresh and lively to rich and mature.
Aged rums span a progression from one-year amber expressions to longer-matured standouts such as Première Cuvée (about four years), Cuvée Prestige 9 Years, JR aged rums, and Cuvée Hors d’Âge or vintage bottlings crafted from select older barrels and harvests. These rums are prized for their structure, elegance, and complexity.
The aging program employs a variety of barrels: primarily ex-bourbon American oak, large French oak demi-muids (600L), and occasionally new oak for finishing. Barrels are meticulously topped up, and aging takes place in traditional wooden cellars under the tropical heat, which intensifies maturation and imparts a signature depth to the rums.
Flavor Profile & Reputation
White agricoles from ReimonenQ are celebrated for their purity and intensity—delivering fresh cane, vibrant vegetal and green notes, pronounced minerality, and a strikingly aromatic cane bouquet. These qualities make them favorites among Ti’ Punch aficionados and cocktail enthusiasts alike.
Aged expressions develop rich layers of oak, caramel, vanilla, and a medley of fruit—ranging from exotic and tropical to dried—alongside warming spice. The Cuvée Prestige 9-Year stands out for its mahogany color and complex aromas, featuring citrus and exotic fruits, ripe banana, pastry, and floral nuances, and a subtle hint of milk chocolate. The palate is refined, with a long, elegant finish.
Across the range, ReimonenQ rums are renowned for their bold structure, lingering finishes, and a harmonious balance of elegance and intensity—defining hallmarks of the distillery’s style.
Cultural / Heritage & Visitor Experience
Visitors to the ReimonenQ estate can explore the on-site Musée du Rhum. This comprehensive rum museum offers insights into the science and art of sugar cane cultivation, fermentation, distillation, and the rich heritage of Guadeloupean rum. The museum experience deepens appreciation for the distillery’s legacy and the cultural significance of rum in the region.
ReimonenQ’s ongoing evolution is a testament to its philosophy: tradition seamlessly blended with modernization. Over the years, the distillery has implemented new stills, state-of-the-art process controls, and advanced sustainability measures—all while maintaining strong family and local roots. This balance ensures ReimonenQ remains relevant and respected in the ever-evolving world of agricole rum.
