Depaz

Introduction:

Depaz Rhums Agricoles offers a diverse product range, including white Rums, matured Rums, and special editions. Among their matured Rums are the Depaz Rhum VSOP 7 years and the Depaz Rhum XO 8 years.

The Depaz Rhum VSOP 7 years is aged for a total of seven years, surpassing the minimum requirement of four years for the designation VSOP (very old special pale). Similarly, the Depaz Rhum XO 8 years matures for eight to ten years, exceeding the guidelines for the designation XO (extra old), which require a minimum of six years of aging.

The special editions from Depaz include the Depaz Rhum Port Cask Finish 8 years. This Rum is aged for at least eight years in small oak casks and then undergoes an additional eleven months of finishing in port wine casks, imparting unique flavors and characteristics to the final product.

The range of Depaz Rhums Agricoles demonstrates the distillery’s commitment to crafting premium Rums with exceptional aging and finishing techniques, offering consumers a diverse and distinctive selection to choose from.

The Production:

The sugar cane used for Depaz Rum is grown on the volcanic soils of the Montagne Pelée in Martinique. The combination of the fertile volcanic soils and the favorable climate, characterized by abundant sunlight and rainfall, provides optimal conditions for the sugar cane to thrive.

The harvesting of sugar cane begins in February when the cane is at the right level of ripeness. A clear indication of this is the appearance of sugar cane flowers, which give the fields a white feathery appearance. As soon as the sugar cane is harvested, it is immediately ground to extract the freshest possible juice. The traditional method of using an old steam engine is employed for grinding. Before crushing, the sugar cane is irrigated with pure spring water from the Montagne Pelée. The result of this process is a very sweet juice known as ‘vesou’ and a fibrous residue called ‘bagasse.’ The bagasse serves a dual purpose, being used for energy production and composting.

The extracted vesou juice is filtered and then sent for fermentation at Depaz, a process that takes 48 hours. The fermentation is a crucial step in the production of Rhum Agricole. Following fermentation, the Depaz Rums are distilled in a Column Still. The final product is a white Rhum Agricole with an alcohol content of 70%.

The use of locally grown sugar cane and traditional production methods in combination with the unique terroir of Martinique contributes to the exceptional quality and distinct character of Depaz Rum, making it a cherished choice among Rum enthusiasts.

The History:

In 1651, Jacques Duparquet, the first governor of Martinique, established the agricultural estate La Montagne. Initially used for tobacco and indigo cultivation, the estate later transitioned to sugar cane farming. Victor Depaz’s family, along with other families, farmed the estate, and the resulting Rum production gained significant success. This led to the town of Saint Pierre becoming the world’s first Rum port and earning the nickname little Paris of the Antilles.

However, tragedy struck when the Montagne Pelée volcano erupted, devastating Saint Pierre and causing the loss of Victor Depaz’s entire family while he was studying in Bordeaux. Despite the immense personal loss, Victor decided to return to Martinique and establish his own Rum distillery. In 1917, the distillery began operation, and alongside it, the family built Château Depaz, a grand family house where Victor resided with his family.

In the 1950s, Victor’s sons André and Raoul took over the company and undertook several modernization efforts to further develop and improve the distillery. Their dedication and innovation helped to strengthen the legacy of Depaz Rum and ensure its continued success in the Rum industry.

The Visitor Centre:

A visit to the Depaz distillery offers guests an insightful experience into the world of Rum production. Visitors can partake in a free tour of the distillery, where they have the opportunity to learn about the various stages of Rum production through informative display boards or an audio tour.

After the educational tour, guests are invited to indulge in a tasting session, where they can savor a selection of different Depaz Rums. The tasting allows visitors to appreciate the diverse flavors and unique characteristics that make Depaz Rums stand out.

Additionally, visitors can extend their excursion by exploring the charming Depaz Park, a five-hectare area adorned with majestic trees that have been standing for over a century. A stroll through this beautiful park adds to the enchanting experience of the distillery visit.

Furthermore, guests have the chance to visit the historic Château Depaz, which serves as the family house and holds its own fascinating story. Alternatively, they can explore the Depaz Museum, which likely provides further insights into the rich history and heritage of the Depaz distillery.

Overall, a visit to Depaz promises a captivating journey through the world of Rum, accompanied by the natural beauty and cultural treasures that surround the distillery, making it a memorable experience for Rum enthusiasts and tourists alike.

Visitor information:

Destillerie Depaz
Plantation de la Montagne Pelée
97250 Saint – Pierre
Tel: +596 596 786498