4. Characteristics and properties of the final product

4.1 Classification

Rums can be divided into three distinct categories.

• Rhum agricole is produced from pure sugarcane juice. It is considered to be of superior quality, offering a rich, complex flavor and an attractive amber color. The "rhum agricole" designation also implies compliance with the following criteria: it must be produced in Martinique, Guadeloupe, Réunion, French Guiana or Madeira; it must not be distilled above 90%; it must have a volatile substances content of at least 225 g/hL of pure alcohol.

• Traditional industrial rum (or tafia) is made from molasses. It is sweeter by nature, although it can vary according to the type of extracts used in its manufacture. Generally...