Agricole Rum

Agricole rum, or rhum agricole, is a distinctive style of rum made from freshly pressed sugarcane juice rather than molasses, giving it a more grassy, earthy, and aromatic profile. Originating in the French Caribbean islands—especially Martinique, Guadeloupe, and Marie-Galante—this type of rum reflects the terroir and character of the raw sugarcane far more directly than traditional molasses-based rums. Unlike most rums, which are made from the by-products of sugar refining, agricole rum is crafted using whole sugarcane, fermented and distilled soon after harvest. This results in a spirit that’s often described as floral, vegetal, and complex, with a dry finish and vibrant intensity. It’s available in both unaged (blanc) and aged (ambré or vieux) versions, and is a key ingredient in classic Caribbean cocktails like the Ti' Punch.

Agricole rum is protected by the AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) designation in Martinique, ensuring strict production standards similar to those used for fine French wines. It’s a favourite among rum enthusiasts and bartenders for its bold character and artisanal roots.

Agricole rum lends itself beautifully to a range of cocktails, thanks to its bold, grassy character and vibrant complexity. The most iconic is the Ti’ Punch, a minimalist Caribbean classic made with white rhum agricole, a squeeze of lime, and a touch of cane syrup—simple, refreshing, and deeply expressive of Martinique’s culture. For something fruitier, the Daiquiri D’Ananas adds pineapple liqueur for a tropical twist, while the El Presidente blends rhum agricole with dry vermouth, orange curaçao, and grenadine for a Cuban-inspired, spirit-forward sipper. More adventurous mixes include the Matcha Colada, a green tea-infused riff on the Piña Colada, and the Broken Corazon Club, which layers rhum with tropical fruit and a float of Fernet for a bold, bittersweet finish.

Rum comes in a wide variety of styles, each offering distinct flavours, colours, and uses. White rum is light and crisp, often used in cocktails like mojitos and daiquiris. Gold rum, also known as amber rum, is aged longer and has mellow notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice. Dark rum is deeply aged, rich, and full-bodied, ideal for sipping or adding depth to bold cocktails. Spiced rum is infused with warming spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, making it a flavourful choice for mixed drinks. Overproof rum has a much higher alcohol content and is typically used sparingly in punches or flambé recipes. Additionally, agricole rum, made from fresh sugarcane juice rather than molasses, offers a grassy, earthy profile and is popular in French-speaking Caribbean regions. These diverse styles make rum one of the most versatile spirits in the world, perfect for everything from tropical cocktails to refined sipping. Even for those that seek something very different and like Flavoured rum, these can come in a wide range of popular flavours like pineapple, cherry or banana!

Drink Finder has been trading for more than half a century. In that time, we’ve gained a reputation for excellence not only in the products we stock at fantastic prices but also in the excellent customer service we offer. We deliver nationwide in the UK and to some parts of the EU as well, with hassle-free, reliable delivery. Find out more about our rum expertise on our blog: Rum 101: Yo Hoho and a Bottle of Rum & The Best Rum Cocktails to Make at Home