Santa Teresa

Santa Teresa is the oldest rum distillery in Venezuela, founded in 1796 in the Aragua Valley. Still family-owned, the brand has become a benchmark for Venezuelan rum, crafted using traditional methods and aged under tropical conditions that create depth and complexity.

In 1830, the hacienda came into the hands of the Vollmer family of German origin, who still own and manage it today. It was the Vollmer family who modernized production while preserving traditional methods, making Santa Teresa an icon of Venezuelan rum.

Its most iconic expression is Santa Teresa 1796, produced using the unique solera method, inspired by Spanish winemaking traditions. The portfolio ranges from younger rums ideal for cocktails to well-aged premium rums meant for sipping. Santa Teresa represents a fusion of history, craftsmanship, and modern rum-making.

Santa Teresa rums are produced from juice and molasses of locally grown sugarcane. Distillation takes place in a combination of column stills and pot stills, which allows the blending of lighter and more robust distillates. A distinctive hallmark of the brand is the use of the Solera system, where younger and older rums are married in oak casks to create a harmonious and balanced flavor with complex character.

The flavor profile of Santa Teresa rums is smooth, balanced, and complex. Typical notes include caramel, honey, vanilla, dried fruit, and nuts. There are also hints of gentle spices, cocoa, and tobacco, while older rums bring nuances of leather and smoky wood. The flagship Santa Teresa 1796 offers an exceptionally elegant profile with a long finish, where sweetness, dryness, and slight bitterness blend together, giving it a sophisticated character.

The Vollmer family is also known for linking the Santa Teresa brand with strong social engagement. Through the “Proyecto Alcatraz” initiative, they help rehabilitate former gang members by offering them work on the plantation, the opportunity to play rugby, and access to education. In addition, Hacienda Santa Teresa is open to visitors, who can learn about rum production, discover the family’s history, and taste premium editions.

Thus, Santa Teresa is not only a rum producer but also a brand that unites history, tradition, and social responsibility. Thanks to the unique solera process and commitment to quality, it stands among the most important rum producers in Latin America. Its flagship product, Santa Teresa 1796, is regarded as an iconic rum that appeals to connoisseurs as well as lovers of smooth and complex spirits worldwide.