Reunion Island
Réunion Island, a lush French territory in the Indian Ocean, enchants with dramatic volcanic landscapes, vibrant Creole culture, and a storied rum-making legacy that sets it apart in the world of spirits.
Isautier, Réunion’s oldest distillery, has been family-owned and operated since its founding in 1845. It crafts a diverse portfolio—from dry, grassy agricoles to lusciously flavored “arrangés”—and hosts the immersive Saga du Rhum museum, a vibrant tribute to the island’s rum heritage and artisanal skill.
Savanna Distillery, established in 1870, is Réunion’s industrial powerhouse. Renowned for its expansive range, including agricoles, traditional molasses-based rums, aged expressions, and aromatic styles, Savanna stands out for its ISO certification and a steady stream of prestigious awards.
Rivière du Mât Distillery, founded in 1886, is the island’s largest producer, sourcing sugarcane from local plantations. The distillery champions sustainability—utilizing vinasse-powered biogas and advanced recycling for energy self-sufficiency—while crafting a broad array of white, amber, aged, and flavored rums.
Réunion is France’s leading rum-producing region, known primarily for molasses-based rhums, but with a growing reputation for rhum agricole and grand arôme styles. Its rums are safeguarded by a Protected Geographical Indication (GI), underscoring their authenticity and regional character.
Culturally, rum is woven into Réunion’s daily life. Rhum arrangé—white rum infused with local fruits, spices, and aromatic leaves—captures the spirit of the island with flavors like lychee, mango, and tamarind, reflecting both the tropical abundance and cherished traditions of the region.
