Our Process

At Ferreira Post Distilleries, every bottle is a labour of love, rooted in precision and passion:

  1. The Finest Ingredients:
    We begin with premium molasses sourced from the lush fields of KwaZulu Natal. This locally grown ingredient serves as the foundation of our craft, ensuring a rich and authentic flavour profile.
  2. Fermentation:
    With care and expertise, our molasses is transformed through fermentation, using only the finest imported yeasts. This crucial step develops the unique character of our spirits.
  3. Distillation:
    Our commitment to quality is evident in our innovative distillation process. First, we perform a stripping run using a ten-bubble plate reflux column, producing a pure and consistent low wine. This is followed by a second distillation in an eight-bubble plate reflux column, refining the spirit to its smooth, polished final state.
  4. Aging:
    For our aged rums, we rely on second-fill bourbon casks, which infuse the spirits with rich notes of oak, vanilla, and caramel, resulting in a complex and sophisticated flavour.
  5. Our Coastal Touch:
    The entire process takes place mere moments from the Indian Ocean, where the cool coastal breezes and salt-laden air add a distinctive character to our spirits.

From fermentation to distillation to aging, every stage is infused with our dedication to excellence and the unparalleled beauty of Jeffreys Bay—a place where waves, history, and craftsmanship collide.

How rum is made from Molasses to Bottle

At Ferreira Post Distilleries in Jeffreys Bay, rum is not just made — it is crafted and infused by the taste of the Indian Ocean. Every step of the process is driven by a commitment to quality, tradition, and compliance with South African regulations. Here’s an inside look at how our premium craft rum journeys from raw ingredients to the bottle you enjoy.

  1. Ingredients: The Foundation of Great Rum

Craft rum begins with quality inputs. We use:

  • Natural, filtered rainwater – free from chemicals and gently purified to preserve its mineral balance.
  • Bakery and confectionary-grade molasses – rich, flavourful, and sourced locally from South African producers.
  • Yeast and nutrients – carefully selected strains and supplements developed abroad to ensure optimal fermentation.
  1. Processing: Precision in Every Batch

We pay close attention to:

  • Temperature control – to create the ideal environment for yeast activity.
  • Accurate mixing – combining molasses and water in specific ratios.
  • Correct nutrient dosing – to support healthy fermentation and consistent alcohol development.
  1. Fermentation: Where Magic Begins

Fermentation typically spans several days, during which:

  • We closely monitor temperature, pH, alcohol formation, specific gravity, and BRIX levels.
  • Adjustments are made throughout to guide the process and maintain consistency.

This phase converts sugar into alcohol — and sets the stage for the rum’s signature flavours.

Fermentation area…

How rum is made
  1. Distillation: Purity and Character

We use a ten-plate reflux column for the stripping run and an eight-plate column for the spirit run.

  • The stripping run removes water and heavier compounds.

Our big still …

How rum is made
  • The spirit run isolates the heart of the rum — smooth, clean, and flavourful.

Distillation is done slowly and with care, preserving the spirit’s complexity and quality.

Our spirit still …

 

How rum is made
  1. Aging: Time and Oak (Where Applicable)

For our aged rums:

  • The distillate is diluted using reverse osmosis water before entering oak barrels.
  • We use second-fill bourbon casks, allowing time to mellow the spirit while adding subtle notes of oak, pawpaw, and tannin.
  • The rum is monitored regularly to assess its evolution.
How rum is made
  1. Blending and Bottling: Final Touches

Once matured or prepared:

  • Rums are blended and adjusted to bottling strength.
  • Bottles are carefully cleaned and filled under hygienic conditions.
  • Where applicable, natural colourants and flavourants are added in accordance with South African regulations.
How rum is made
  1. Compliance: Our Ongoing Commitment

From fermentation to final packaging, we adhere strictly to legal standards governing rum production in South Africa. Every bottle reflects our dedication to quality, safety, and craftsmanship.

Ferreira Post Distilleries is proud to offer rum made with care, knowledge, and passion — from molasses to bottle.

Jeffreys Bay

May 2025