Le Planteur – Your New Favorite Caribbean Rum Cocktail
Fresh fruit juice and rum, the perfect Caribbean combination. And in Martinique, they do it best with their iconic drink: Le Planteur.
This fruity, flavorful cocktail is a favorite across the French Caribbean. Made with local rhum agricole and a vibrant mix of tropical juices, it’s the kind of drink that makes you feel like you’re lounging beachside even if you’re just parked on your patio.
A Taste of Martinique
Martinique is often called the “Isle of Sophistication”. It’s a place where French elegance meets Caribbean soul. You’ll find sun-soaked beaches, lush hikes, and waterfalls to chase, but the real magic? It’s in the food and drink.
The island’s cuisine is a fusion of French, African, and Creole flavors, think accra (saltfish fritters), lambi (conch), rich curries, and fresh seafood served with flair. And where there’s flavor, there’s rum.
Unlike many other islands that use molasses, Martinique’s rhum agricole is made from freshly pressed sugarcane juice. It’s bold, slightly grassy, and smooth with an AOC designation that puts it in the same elite league as Champagne.
Which brings us right back to Le Planteur, a drink that’s fruity, punchy, and full of island vibes.
So while you plan that dream trip (or just daydream), shake up a glass of this Martinican classic and sip your way into vacation mode. Let’s go to Martinique!
How to make Le Planteur
Ingredients you’ll need
Juice Base
- Orange juice – the citrusy foundation of the drink
- Guava juice – adds that sweet, tropical tang
Sweetener
- Sugar cane syrup – use more or less depending on your preferred sweetness
Spirit
- White rhum agricole – the heart of the drink; bold and grassy
Optional Flair
Mango pulp – for a fruity finish on top
Instructions
- In a large jug or pitcher, mix together the orange juice, guava juice, rhum agricole, and sugar cane syrup.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
- Let the mixture rest for at least an hour (chill it in the fridge if you prefer it cold).
- When ready to serve, pour over ice or serve chilled.
- Top each glass with a spoonful of mango pulp for that extra island flair.
Serving Tips
- Serve in punch glasses or short tumblers with a slice of lime or orange for garnish.
- A splash of lime juice can brighten it up if your juices lean very sweet.
- Hosting a party? Make a big batch and float orange slices and guava chunks in the pitcher for that full tropical effect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but the flavor will be slightly different. Rhum agricole has a distinct grassy, fresh cane flavor. If using regular rum, choose one that’s light and not too overpowering.
Absolutely. Mix everything (except the mango pulp) and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving.
That depends on your juices and how much cane syrup you use. Start light on the syrup and adjust to taste.
Yes! Skip the rum and replace with a splash of lime soda or sparkling water for a refreshing mocktail version.
More cocktails to try
- Sorrel Rum Punch – tart, festive, and perfect for the holidays
- Caribbean Rum Punch – the classic party punch, bold and fruity
- Gully Wash (Sky Juice) – a creamy coconut-based cocktail from The Bahamas
- Rum Cream – rich, smooth, and perfect as a dessert sipper
Sip Martinique at Home
This Le Planteur cocktail is sunshine in a glass, sweet, boozy, and bursting with island energy. Whether you’re dreaming of a getaway or just need a break from the usual rum and Coke, this drink is your ticket to the French Caribbean.
Give it a try and let me know how yours turned out in the comments!
Recipe
Le Planteur
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pitcher or jug, mix together the orange juice, guava juice, sugar cane syrup, and rhum agricole.
- Let the mixture sit for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to blend. Chill in the refrigerator if serving cold.
- Adjust sweetness with more cane syrup if needed.
- Serve chilled or over ice. Top each glass with a small scoop of mango pulp, if using.
