When Rhum Depaz Cuvée Prestige XO was crowned best rum in the world at the Caribbean Rum Awards 2025 organized in Saint-Barthélemy, the award immediately struck a chord well beyond specialist circles. This international award is not just for an exceptional cuvée. It recognizes a house, a method and a region whose high standards have been built up over time. Rhum Depaz confirms its place as one of the world’s leading agricultural rum brands.
This recognition comes at a time when Caribbean spirits are increasingly being observed, compared and assessed according to high international standards. To be distinguished at this level implies global consistency, from cane to glass.
A history marked by resilience and memory
The story of Rhum Depaz begins in tragedy. In 1902, the eruption of Mount Pelée destroyed Saint-Pierre and wiped out the family distillery. Victor Depaz, then a student in metropolitan France and the sole survivor of his family, decided to return to Martinique to rebuild. In 1917, he founded Habitation Depaz at the foot of the volcano.
The site has remained unchanged ever since. Today, it is still the heart of production and a strong symbol of continuity. This memory of tragedy, transformed into a sustainable project, is an integral part of the identity of Rhum Depaz.
Rhum Depaz, a rigorous expression of rhum agricole
Rhum Depaz is fully in keeping with the tradition of Martinique’s agricultural rums, made exclusively from pure sugarcane juice. The cane is grown on the volcanic soils of the north of the island, renowned for their mineral richness and ability to produce aromatically dense juices.
After harvesting, the cane is quickly crushed to preserve its freshness. Fermentation is precisely controlled, followed by Creole column distillation. This method produces a structured rum, faithful to its origins, without masking the character of the raw material.
This technical rigor goes hand in hand with a profound respect for natural rhythms, an essential condition for the regularity of aromatic profiles.
Cuvée Prestige XO, the choice of time and balance
Cuvée Prestige XO, awarded in 2025, is the fruit of a blend of rums aged for long periods in oak barrels. Tropical ageing is particularly demanding, requiring constant monitoring for evaporation and climatic variations.
This patient work gives rise to a rum with complex aromas, where wood expresses itself without dominating. Spicy notes, ripe fruit, hints of vanilla and a long finish make up a well-balanced whole, sought after for its finesse rather than for demonstration.
A world title with local resonance
The Caribbean Rum Awards jury conducts blind tastings, according to strict criteria of balance, complexity and coherence. The crowning of Rhum Depaz Cuvée Prestige XO thus goes beyond a simple medal.
It highlights the excellence of Martinique’s agricultural rum, protected by an AOC that is unique in the world, and reminds us of Martinique’s ability to produce spirits recognized at the highest international level.
For the region, this distinction sends out a strong economic, cultural and heritage signal.
A house dedicated to transmission
Rhum Depaz is not just about production. L’Habitation Depaz is also a place where visitors can learn about the rum-making process. The transmission of know-how, the teaching of the terroir and the promotion of our heritage are central to this approach.
This opening helps to anchor the company in its local environment, while strengthening its international influence.
📷 Photo credits: © Rhum Depaz – official Facebook page
Rhum Depaz – Cuvée Prestige XO was singled out at the Caribbean Rum Awards 2025 for its balance, aromatic complexity and consistent profile. The international jury evaluated the rums blind, according to strict criteria, placing this Martinique cuvée at the top of the competition.
Rhum Depaz is distinguished by its roots at the foot of Montagne Pelée, on rich volcanic soils, and by production based on pure sugarcane juice. Our mastery of fermentation, Creole column distillation and tropical ageing give our rums a precise, recognizable signature.
Yes, an international title such as that achieved in 2025 sets a lasting benchmark. It is part of the history of the company and of Martinique’s agricultural rum. This type of distinction continues to influence product recognition well beyond the year of the competition.
