Marquisat de Sainte-Marie Estate

Local Production - Capesterre Belle-eau

At the height of the sugar recession of the late 19th century, the Marquis de Sainte-Marie put the Marquisat sugar factory up for sale, finding a buyer in Henry Longueteau, an expert in the field. In 1895, he began converting the former sugar mill into the Espérance-Monrepos Distillery, now the longest-operating facility of its kind in Guadeloupe. It still uses the same steam engine to drive an 87-year-old piston, powered by the incineration of bagasse (crushed cane residue). Generations have come and gone, each applying its own expertise to the continuous improvement of production. The estate possesses nearly 100 hectares devoted to sugar cane, fruit tree, and tropical plant crops. Longueteau Rum and Karukera Rum are both produced on the same magnificent estate. Tour the facility for a complete overview of its history. Recently added infrastructures include a product ageing facility with a capacity of 360 oak barrels reserved for “rhum vieux” and 11 stainless steel conditioning tanks. Visitors have access to the entire estate; guided tours available. Visit the boutique to taste, purchase, and learn more about the rums. Longueteau L'Espérance Distillery – Karukera Rum Distillery - Domaine du Marquisat de Sainte-Marie. Guided tours by appointment, Saturday and Sunday, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.