An ode to the land, the hands,
and the heritage — since 2022
From the fertile soils of Madagascar’s SAVA region, vanilla grows in harmony with the earth. Each orchid blooms for just one day, reminding us that beauty is fleeting and that patience is the essence of true flavor.
The hands that nurture.
The Art of Cultivation.
Every vanilla orchid tells a story of patience. Since the flowers bloom for just a single day, each one must be carefully hand-pollinated at the perfect moment. This delicate process, mastered by Malagasy farmers, requires both precision and devotion. Over time, the pods mature slowly under the tropical sun, absorbing the richness of the soil and the rhythm of the land. It is this art of cultivation, a balance of nature and human care, that gives our vanilla its depth, fragrance, and soul.
The Legacy of
Edmond Albius
Born in 1829, Edmond Albius, when he was just a 12-year-old boy with an extraordinary gift, discovered the method of hand-pollinating vanilla orchids. His simple, ingenious technique transformed vanilla from a rare luxury into a beloved flavor for the world. Though unrecognized in his lifetime, his legacy lives on in every pod. 1829 Vanilla carries his name in honor of his brilliance and resilience.
Sustainably Sourced
in Madagascar
We work closely with smallholder farmers, honoring their craft while protecting biodiversity. By supporting traditional curing methods and fair compensation, we preserve both the environment and the communities that make Madagascar Bourbon vanilla the finest in the world.
Meet the founder:
Steve van Kanten
Steve van Kanten, an airline pilot by trade, first encountered the world of vanilla during his regular flights to Madagascar. What began as curiosity soon grew into a deep respect for the complexity, tradition, and craftsmanship behind each pod.
Moved by the potential to share something truly exceptional, he founded 1829 Vanilla, a brand dedicated to importing the highest-quality, hand-harvested vanilla to Europe. Today, his work stands as a testament to how genuine passion can evolve into a mission built on quality, authenticity, and care.
Driven by a desire to excel, Steve is committed to expanding the brand with new, thoughtfully sourced products — working only with the most skilled partners in the industry. Because vanilla this exceptional deserves nothing less.
