At VanillaPura, we're based in the heart of Utah, but our passion for vanilla takes us to the far corners of the earth. Travel to the near exact opposite side of the world from our home, and you'll discover the islands of Reunion and Mauritius—home to some of the most rare and elegant vanilla beans on our planet.
These extraordinary beans don't become available often, but when they do, they go fast. The vanilla from these Indian Ocean islands is prized by connoisseurs and chefs worldwide for its unique flavor profile and exceptional quality. The limited availability makes each harvest a special event, and we're honored to bring these treasures to our customers whenever possible.
A Sweet Legacy: The Birth of Vanilla Cultivation on Reunion
Vanilla's journey to Reunion Island began in the early 19th century, around 1819, when the French first introduced vanilla orchids from Mexico. However, for over two decades, the plants flourished but produced no beans—the secret of pollination remained elusive. That all changed in 1841 when a young enslaved boy named Edmond Albius, at just 12 years old, invented the hand-pollination technique that would transform the island's agricultural destiny.
His ingenious method revolutionized vanilla cultivation and is still the standard practice used around the world today. Before Albius's discovery, vanilla could only be pollinated by specific bees native to Mexico, making cultivation outside its native region nearly impossible. His simple yet brilliant technique using a small stick or blade of grass to transfer pollen made it possible to grow vanilla commercially, and by the 1860s, Reunion had become a major vanilla producer. For nearly two centuries now, this island has been perfecting the art of vanilla cultivation.
The Sweet Taste of Island Terroir
What makes Reunion and Mauritius vanilla so exceptional is their distinctively sweet, almost dessert-like flavor profile. These beans are known for their pronounced sweetness with notes of caramel, chocolate, and dried fruit—a complexity that sets them apart from other vanilla origins. The aroma is intoxicating, with a creamy richness that fills the senses.
Reunion vs. Mauritius: Subtle Differences, Extraordinary Character
While both islands share similar growing conditions and heritage, their vanilla beans have subtle but notable differences:
Reunion Vanilla tends to have a more intense, concentrated sweetness with bold fruity notes. The beans often exhibit a deeper, almost wine-like complexity with hints of raisin and fig. The flavor is robust and full-bodied, making it ideal for applications where you want vanilla to be the star of the show.
Mauritius Vanilla offers a slightly more delicate sweetness with floral undertones. The flavor profile is elegant and refined, with notes of honey, cream, and subtle spice. These beans have a silky smoothness that works beautifully in custards, ice creams, and delicate pastries where a more nuanced vanilla presence is desired.
Both varieties share the characteristic sweetness that comes from the volcanic soil, tropical climate, and traditional curing methods passed down through generations. The islands' unique terroir—the combination of soil, climate, and cultivation practices—creates vanilla beans that are unmistakably special.
Why These Beans Are So Special
The volcanic soil, tropical climate, and traditional cultivation methods of Reunion and Mauritius create vanilla beans with distinctive characteristics. The sweet, complex flavor notes with floral undertones and a creamy, smooth finish set them apart from other origins. Each bean is hand-pollinated using Albius's technique, hand-harvested at peak ripeness, and carefully cured to develop its full flavor potential.
When we're able to source these rare beans, we know our customers appreciate not just their exceptional quality and sweet taste, but also the rich history and craftsmanship behind every pod. From the legacy of Edmond Albius to the dedicated farmers who continue his tradition today, each bean tells a story that spans continents and centuries.
Keep an eye on our offerings—when Reunion and Mauritius vanilla becomes available, it's an opportunity you won't want to miss.
