Frequently Asked Questions
Santa Teresa 1796 is a Venezuelan masterpiece, crafted using the Solera aging process, a method traditionally reserved for fine Spanish sherries. Blending rums aged between 4 and 35 years, this premium rum offers unparalleled depth and smoothness. Distilled from single-estate molasses in the lush Aragua Valley, it undergoes a unique triple aging process in bourbon, Hoghead oak barrels, and French oak vats, creating a symphony of flavors. Expect a rich amber-red hue and a tantalizing nose of fruity oak, caramel, and spices. On the palate, notes of dark chocolate, cinnamon, prunes, and leather intermingle with hints of honey and pepper, delivering a dry yet silky finish. Hand-sealed with wax as a testament to artisanal tradition, Santa Teresa 1796 is a celebration of heritage and craftsmanship, making it one of the most awarded super-premium rums in the world.
Process & Profile
Santa Teresa 1796 is a blend of rums aged between 4 and 35 years, crafted using a unique triple-aging process. The production begins with aging in American white oak barrels, continues through the solera system—an artisanal layering of barrels used traditionally for sherry—and concludes in French oak vats that preserve the "mother rum" first used in 1992. This process ensures every bottle has intricate depth, smoothness, and complexity. This molasses-based rum is produced in Venezuela, where the raw materials and all stages of production must meet strict quality standards. The distillation process combines heavy pot stills, heavy column stills, and light column stills to create a well-balanced spirit. With minimal sugar added (under 3 grams per 750ml), Santa Teresa 1796 achieves its natural sweetness from its extensive aging process.Tasting Notes
Santa Teresa 1796 offers a sensory journey with its sophisticated flavor profile:- Nose: Fruity aromas with hints of dark chocolate, caramel, vanilla, and spices.
- Palate: A harmonious balance of nuts, leather, vanilla, cinnamon, and prunes, complemented by subtle notes of honey, coffee, and dark chocolate.
- Finish: Smooth and slightly smoky, with layers of oak, bitter chocolate, and sherry.
What Makes It Special
Santa Teresa 1796 is not only a high-quality rum but also a symbol of resilience and heritage:- Historic Craftsmanship: First released in 1996 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Hacienda Santa Teresa, it embodies centuries of Venezuelan rum-making tradition.
- Triple-Aging Process: This unique method blends tradition and innovation, producing a rum that is silky smooth, balanced, and complex.
- Social Impact: Produced through Project Alcatraz, a program rehabilitating former gang members, the rum represents hope and transformation. Purchasing Santa Teresa 1796 supports this inspiring initiative.
- Global Acclaim: With over 100 international awards, Santa Teresa 1796 is recognized as one of the world’s most exceptional rums.
How to Enjoy
Santa Teresa 1796 is a versatile rum that delights both purists and mixologists:- Straight: Best experienced neat or on the rocks to appreciate its smooth, complex flavors and rich history.
- Cocktails: Enhance classic cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Daiquiri, or experiment with modern creations to showcase its nuanced character.
- Pairings: Complement its profile with dark chocolate, tropical fruits, or a fine cigar for a luxurious treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Santa Teresa 1796 unique?
Santa Teresa 1796 is a triple-aged rum crafted through a unique Solera process, a traditional aging technique adapted from Spanish Sherry-making. This process ensures a smooth and balanced profile, with every bottle containing a trace of the original rum (Ron Madre) from 1992. It is also notable for being Venezuela’s first super-premium rum, made from rums aged between 4 to 35 years in various oak barrels.
How is Santa Teresa 1796 aged?
The aging process involves three stages: 1. Initial aging in separate American oak barrels for 4 to 35 years. 2. The Solera method, where rums cascade through four tiers of barrels, maintaining contact with the original blend. 3. Final aging in French oak vats (foudres), which have remained partially filled since 1992.
What are the tasting notes of Santa Teresa 1796?
Santa Teresa 1796 offers a complex sensory experience: - **Nose**: Fruity aromas with hints of wood. - **Palate**: Notes of nuts, dark chocolate, vanilla, cinnamon, honey, leather, and prunes, balanced with subtle peppery spice. - **Finish**: Smooth with lingering cocoa and oak tones.
Does Santa Teresa 1796 contain added sugar?
Santa Teresa 1796 has minimal added sugar, with less than 3 grams per 750ml bottle. Its sweetness comes largely from the triple-aging process rather than additives, making it less sweet than many comparable super-premium rums.
How should Santa Teresa 1796 be enjoyed?
Santa Teresa 1796 can be savored neat or in cocktails. A recommended serve is the "Cojonudo," where 2 oz. of the rum is paired with soda water and an orange peel in a glass over ice to highlight its complex flavors.
Why is it called Santa Teresa 1796?
The name commemorates the founding year of the Hacienda Santa Teresa in 1796. The rum was launched in 1996 to celebrate 200 years of rum-making tradition on the estate.
Is Santa Teresa 1796 vegan or organic?
Santa Teresa 1796 is vegan, as it does not use any animal products or derivatives. However, it is not fully organic since fertilizers are still used in sugarcane cultivation.
What awards has Santa Teresa 1796 won?
Santa Teresa 1796 has achieved global recognition, including a Gold Medal at the London Spirits Competition in 2025 for its exceptional quality and packaging design. It has received over 100 medals from prestigious competitions worldwide.
What is the history behind Santa Teresa 1796?
Santa Teresa 1796 is produced by the Venezuelan distillery founded over 200 years ago. The rum reflects the Vollmer family's multigenerational craftsmanship and their legacy of transforming challenges into opportunities, such as through their impactful Project Alcatraz initiative, which aims to rehabilitate former gang members through meaningful work.
What sets the packaging apart?
The bottle features a redesigned visual identity with elegant details, including a wax seal and rosette emblem. This design reflects the brand’s heritage and commitment to quality over its 227-year history.
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