Did you know that most Rum brands owned in Martinique were owned by Bekés (former white slaves traders) except for a handful? Well, among these only one is directly linked to a former slave family. Formerly known as Rum Madkaud. 

Rum Madkaud opened its doors in 1895, by Felicien Madkaud who at the time was born a free man contrary to his parents who were both former slaves on the island. 

Though at his beginning it was though, he gradually purchased sugar industries and turned them into rum distillery in over 6 locations all over the island (Le Carbet, La Digue…). After his death the company was passed on generation to generation, it went through some very tough times, and was forgotten until it was recently revamped by a Félicien’s descendant, Stephane Madkaud in 2006.  When he took over the company, he re-baptized it, Heritiers Madkaud to honor his ancestors but to remind the history behind this Rum which is the only rum founded by an afro family. In 2017 they won the gold medal in Madrid for the international Rum conference. 

 The brand recently went viral around martinique. Indeed, due to the economic monopoly situation held by the békés, the new wave of anti-colonial activists on the island have taken up this brand as a symbol of resistance. 

 

Have you ever tried one of their rum? 

Caribbeanfully yours