River Antoine Rum Distillery
Grenada's oldest rum distillery, preserving centuries-old traditions with a waterwheel-powered process and potent spirit.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tour
River Antoine Rum Distillery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tour
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Grenada's oldest rum distillery, preserving centuries-old traditions with a waterwheel-powered process and potent spirit.
"A wonderful tour into the past, seeing how rum should be done!"
🎯 Authentic Experience
Embrace the rustic charm; it's a true step back in time!
🥃 Strong Rum Alert!
Tastings are potent! Sample responsibly.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic Waterwheel
Distillery entrance
Witness the oldest functioning watermill in the Caribbean, still powering the sugar cane crushing process.
Traditional Rum Production
Distillery floor
See firsthand the centuries-old methods of sugar cane pressing, fermentation, and copper pot distillation.
Potent Rum Tasting
Tasting area
Sample Rivers Rum, known for its high alcohol content, and purchase bottles directly from the source.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Step Back in Time
Getting There & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Authentic Experience
Embrace the rustic charm; it's a true step back in time!
🥃 Strong Rum Alert!
Tastings are potent! Sample responsibly.
🚶♀️ Easy to Access
Accessible by public bus from St. George's.
💰 Affordable Tour
Around $15 USD for a comprehensive tour.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Authentic Experience
Embrace the rustic charm; it's a true step back in time!
🥃 Strong Rum Alert!
Tastings are potent! Sample responsibly.
🚶♀️ Easy to Access
Accessible by public bus from St. George's.
💰 Affordable Tour
Around $15 USD for a comprehensive tour.
💧 Waterwheel Dependent
Production relies on river flow; check conditions if possible.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the authentic, historical experience at River Antoine, likening it to stepping back in time. The guided tours are praised for their informative nature, and the potent rum tasting is a memorable highlight. Some note the rustic conditions and the extreme strength of the rum.
"Wonderful tour into the past as you see how rum should be done. We had a fantastic tour guide as she walked us through the process of making some of the greatest rum in the world. Watching the old mill and fires do their job the same way it was done 200 years ago was great. Then a few samples at the end topped off a great tour."
James Rogers
"Most authentic distillery I've seen with all original process and procedures. Good tour explaining it all and as much rum as you can sample at the end. Its very strong!!"
stuart Rackham
"This is a small distillery using traditional methods rather than a large-scale industrial distillery.
The guided tour lasts roughly 30 minutes and costs $15US. There's no requirement to book in advance. The tour showed all aspects of the rum-making process and ended wth a tasting of 2 rums (69% and 75% alcohol rums). Both are available to buy in 750ml bottles.
The distillery is accessible by public transport. From St George's you'll need to take the bus to Grenville and then get a second bus to La Poterie."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the distillery via public transport. Take a bus from St. George's to Grenville, then transfer to a bus heading towards La Poterie. Taxis are also available, though can be pricier.
It's located on the northeast corner of Grenada, so it's a significant journey from St. George's, often combined with other sights in that region.
Yes, driving is possible, but roads can be winding. Parking is available on-site.
Many visitors opt for a guided tour or taxi service that includes the distillery to manage the travel logistics and combine it with other attractions.
Yes, the distillery is often visited alongside sights like Mt. Carmel Falls or Belmont Estate.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, advance booking is not required. Tours are available on a walk-in basis.
The distillery typically operates during daylight hours, with tours running frequently. It's best to check locally for the most up-to-date hours.
A guided tour typically costs around $15 USD per person.
The tour includes a guided walk-through of the historic rum-making process and a tasting of their potent rums.
Yes, you can purchase bottles of Rivers Rum directly at the distillery after your tasting.
🎫 🥃 Rum & Tasting
Rivers Rum is famously strong, with varieties often at 69% and 75% ABV. Be prepared for a potent tasting experience!
They produce Rivers Rum, known for its high proof. Two main varieties are typically available, including one that is allowed on planes.
Absolutely! The tour concludes with a tasting session where you can sample the different rums.
Due to its high alcohol content, the rum is very strong and may not be suitable for those who don't enjoy high-proof spirits.
Rum is made using traditional methods, including a waterwheel-powered mill for sugar cane, open vat fermentation, and copper pot stills.
📸 📸 Photography & Experience
Yes, the historic machinery, rustic setting, and unique processes make it a very photogenic location.
It's a fascinating journey into the past, offering an authentic look at traditional rum production. Visitors often describe it as 'stepping back in time'.
The terrain can be uneven and involves stairs, so it may be challenging for those with significant mobility issues.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be on your feet. The area can be warm and humid, so light clothing is recommended.
The guided tour usually lasts about 30 minutes, followed by the tasting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🥃 Rum Enthusiasts
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
+2The distillery employs over 90 people full-time and supports local farmers who supply the sugar cane, highlighting its significant social and economic impact on the community. This commitment to traditional methods and local employment is a core part of the River Antoine experience, making it more than just a distillery, but a vital part of Grenadian heritage.
Visitors often remark on how the place feels like stepping back in time, with only subtle modern touches like electric motors hinting at the present day. This authenticity is what draws many to River Antoine, seeking a genuine connection to the island's history and its iconic spirit.
The Art of Rivers Rum
The production process is fascinatingly simple yet effective. Sugar cane grown on the estate is pressed by the waterwheel, and the resulting juice undergoes fermentation in open vats. This juice is then distilled, creating the powerful spirit that has been a hallmark of the estate for centuries. The quality and strength of the rum are directly influenced by factors like the river's flow, which dictates the operational capacity of the waterwheel.
+1During the tasting, visitors get to sample these potent spirits. While not for the faint of heart, the unique character and history behind each sip make it a memorable experience. Bottles are available for purchase, allowing you to take a piece of Grenadian history and its powerful spirit home with you.
Navigating Your Visit
Upon arrival, you'll find that tours are readily available and do not require advance booking. The guided tours typically last around 30 minutes, offering an in-depth look at the historical rum-making process. The cost is generally around $15 USD, making it an affordable way to experience a significant piece of Grenadian heritage.
Comfortable footwear is essential, as the distillery grounds can be uneven and involve walking. Given the tropical climate, light and breathable clothing is advisable. While the rustic nature of the distillery is part of its charm, visitors with significant mobility issues might find navigating the terrain challenging.
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