Bejucos; A Caribbean Treat

Mama Juana is a traditional Dominican herbal infusion, typically crafted with rum and sweet red wine as the base spirits. While some experiment with whiskey, vodka, or scotch, rum remains the most authentic choice, reflecting the island’s sugar cane heritage — the foundation of its cultural and botanical identity.

Dominicans often personalize their Mama Juana with their preferred or flavored liquor, adding sweet red wine after the initial curation. Ingredients like fresh or dehydrated ginger and raisins are also added to enhance the complexity of the flavor.

1. Cleansing the contents - tinted wine is poured into the bottle.
2. Sealing the Bottle - A cork or stopper is used to securely seal the bottle.
3. After One Week - The Bitterness and sediment are discarded.
4. Adding Quality Spirits -The bottle is then refilled with a high-quality spirit and sweet red wine in equal parts, until the herbs are fully submerged again.
5. Soaking and Infusing -The mixture is left to soak, and the bottle is gently shaken periodically over a period of 3 to 6 months.

The islanders no longer need to coil rope or twine inside the bottle as a filter, thanks to the availability of cheesecloth and funnel filters.  Nor burying the bottle is necessary, as storing it in a cool, dry place is sufficient. 

 Serving Instruction

Once the infusion is complete, 1 ounce of Mama Juana was poured carefully into a glass retaining the solids.  It is enjoyed neat or over ice.

The resulting concoction has a deep, dark hue and rustic, spiced flavors that echo the spirit of the island over 70 years ago — sweetened with honey.