The fabrication process of Santiago de Cuba Extra Añejo 20 YO Rum adheres strictly to traditional Cuban rum-making techniques. The first step involves selecting the finest sugar cane, cultivated in the fertile lands near Santiago. Once harvested, the cane is pressed to extract the juice, which is then fermented with specific yeast strains that contribute distinctive flavors to the final product.
Following fermentation, the wash is distilled using pot stills, allowing for maximum retention of flavors and aromas. The resulting distillate is then blended carefully before being filled into oak barrels for aging. For the Extra Añejo 20 YO, this aging process takes place for a minimum of twenty years, during which time the rum develops its complexity and character. The barrels allow for interaction with the wood, imparting additional flavors and allowing for evaporation, commonly referred to as the 'angel's share'. This lengthy maturation ensures that each bottle contains a spirit that is both rich in history and meticulously crafted.