Geographic Indications (GIs) : The Martinique AOC Explained
The Martinique AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée) is perhaps the most famous and stringent set of regulations in the rum world. While many regions are only now debating the merits of a Geographic Indication (GI), Martinique has had its framework in place since 1996.
An AOC is a French certification granted to certain geographical indications for wines, cheeses, butters, and other agricultural products. In the case of Martinique, it sets out to define exactly what constitutes “Rhum Agricole Martinique.”
Saint James Royal Ambre 45%. A pleasant surprise when on holiday in Salou, Spain, was stumbling across a litre bottle of this difficult to find 45% ABV Royal Ambre.
Rhum Neisson Blanc 55%. Neisson are a Rhum Agricole producer from Martinique. Neisson produce their rhums from sugar cane harvested at their distillery and are a cane to bottle operatiion. They are not a brand that buy in rhum for blending and ageing.