The story of Madagascan vanilla is a captivating one, spanning oceans and eras. Originating in Mexico, where it was sacred to the Aztecs, vanilla was transported to Bourbon Island (now Reunion Island) by order of Louis XIV in the 17th century. However, it was thanks to Edmond Albius, a young slave from Madagascar, that in 1841 a revolution took place in vanilla cultivation with the invention of manual pollination, enabling vanilla to flourish beyond its natural environment.
Madagascar, with its favorable tropical climate, welcomed vanilla to its soil around 1880, introduced by growers from La Réunion. Vanilla then spread rapidly, particularly in the SAVA region, comprising the towns of Sambava, Antalaha, Vohemar and Andapa, often referred to as the “orchid triangle” for its ideal climatic conditions for this valuable spice to flourish.
Today, Madagascar's “Vanille Bourbon” is a pre-eminent variety on the world market, where it is distributed in bulk by specialized wholesalers and exporters. Vanilla Island, a Madagascar vanilla exporter, is one of the major players in this sector, supplying gourmet vanilla from Madagascar to professionals and distributors on international markets.
Madagascar vanilla transcends its status as a spice to become the symbol of a rich history, distinctive know-how and enduring tradition. It embodies the harmony between humanity and nature, and continues to seduce and delight palates across the globe.
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