Region | Martinica (Caraibi) |
---|---|
Foundation Year | 1845 |
Address | Rhumerie de Fonds Préville - Macouba (Martinique) |
The J.M distillery has its roots as far back as 1845, when the property was in the hands of Jean Marie Martin, who gave the brand its name. In 1914 it was bought by Gustave Crassous de Mèdeuil and since then his heirs have made sure that the tradition of producing top quality rum, made with pride and passion for tradition, is preserved. Located in the small town of Macouba, on the northern side of the coast of Martinique which is a French overseas territory, the distillery is hidden in a lush rainforest, which is home to the Habitation Bellevue distillery. It lies at the foot of Mount Pelèe which almost conceals and protects it, while preserving the wilderness of the surrounding landscape as well as the characteristics of its rum.
The Rums of J.M are produced from wholly owned sugar cane, which is grown in the tropical climate of North Martinique in particularly rich and fertile volcanic soil, and caressed by the tropical sea breeze. The fresh juice, destined for fermentation, is extracted within an hour of cutting in order to avoid premature oxidation or fermentation. This immediacy is designed to maintain the characteristics of freshness and purity that make these bottles unique and distinguishable. The distillation phase takes place in two traditional Creole continuous column stills, which allow the fruity and floral sensation typical of cane sugar to remain. Ageing takes place in carefully selected barrels which, after carbonisation, are scraped to expose the noble tannin once again. Inside them, the rum is affected over time by tropical heat and humidity, causing large quantities to evaporate. These are promptly replaced and refilled with rums of the same vintage, in order to avoid compromising the characteristics of the vintage and to ensure equal ageing rates throughout the year. Finally, it is the water that guarantees its singular uniqueness, with its distinctive characteristics of purity and minerality that emerge directly from the heart of Mount Pelèe.
J.M represents an island, a terroir, sugar cane, men and their expertise, and years of experience and technique. This brand expresses a beautiful country, which is both distant and close at the same time. It is closely connected to the European continent, whose traditions and gastronomy are perfectly in tune with the western world. An island to explore, with a rum that is certainly worth tasting!