Distillerie Rivière du Mât is one of the oldest and most respected rum distilleries in Réunion, and one of the few still in full operation. Founded in 1886, it continues to produce agricole and traditional rums from locally grown sugarcane. The factory setting might not be glamorous, but that’s part of the appeal. This is a working site with real production lines and authentic smells of molasses and steam.

The guided tour takes you through the fermentation tanks, copper columns, and bottling area. It ends with a tasting in the boutique, where you can sample white, aged, and spiced rums, including special editions only sold on site. Even if you’re not a rum enthusiast, it’s a useful glimpse into the island’s agricultural past and its evolving food economy.

👉 Ask to try the rum arranged with combava or vanilla. It’s what locals often use for cooking and cocktails, and it doesn’t usually leave the island.