Rum of the day 17

Saint James - VO

Aged under the tropical climate of Martinique

Saint James VO is a classic aged agricole rum from Martinique, celebrated for its authentic expression of the island’s rich sugarcane heritage. The “VO” — Very Old — designation signifies that this rum has matured for a minimum of three years in oak casks, allowing it to develop a beautifully balanced character. Made exclusively from pure, fresh sugarcane juice and distilled in the traditional Creole column stills, Saint James VO embodies the true craftsmanship of Martinique’s AOC-protected rum tradition. The aging process lends it warm, subtle notes of wood and spice, while preserving the vibrant grassy and fruity undertones that define a good agricole. Smooth yet structured, Saint James VO is equally suited for sipping neat or bringing depth to refined cocktails. Its iconic square bottle and historic label pay tribute to more than 250 years of rum-making expertise, making it a staple for rum enthusiasts who appreciate heritage, terroir, and genuine Caribbean character.

Still

Column

Country

Martinique

Alcohol

42%

Volume

0,7l

Age

minimum 3 Years

Produced by

La Martiniquaise

Aged under the tropical climate of Martinique

Still

Column

Country

Martinique

Alcohol

42%

Volume

0,7l

Age

minimum 3 Years

Produced by

La Martiniquaise

Since 1765, SAINT JAMES has been crafting highly awarded “Rhums Agricoles” in Martinique. Saint James, a renowned AOC Premium ‘Rhum Agricole’ from Martinique, is celebrated for its use of 100% pure cane juice, contributing to its aromatic, fresh, and long-lasting finish. With no added sugar or flavorings, it showcases the purity and authenticity of traditional rhum production.

As the oldest brand in Martinique and the third oldest rum brand in the world, Saint James boasts a rich history. Its distillery is surrounded by more than 1,000 acres of sugarcane plantations located in the island’s northeast. The distillation process is rooted in Martinique’s ancestral methods, including quick fermentation in open vats and a unique distillation at a low ABV in Creole columns, preserving the rum’s character.

The distillery holds the largest stock of old rhums in the Agricole world, with over 15,000 casks aging to perfection. Attracting over 120,000 visitors annually, it remains one of the most visited distilleries in Martinique. Saint James takes great pride in its long heritage while actively working to secure its future through sustainable practices. Each stage of the rhum production process at the distillery is carefully designed to minimize its environmental impact, reflecting a strong commitment to preserving the natural resources of Martinique.

One of the key achievements of Saint James is its complete energy independence, ensuring that the distillery operates with minimal external energy inputs. This focus on sustainability aligns with the brand’s traditional values while supporting a more environmentally conscious production model, ensuring that the legacy of Saint James continues for generations to come.

Tasting Notes

APPEARANCE: Precious, noble dark mahogany.
NOSE: A rich and mysterious heady aroma.
PALATE: Develops notes of fresh fruit (plums), dried fruits (prunes, almonds, walnuts) together with vanilla aromas.