Once they arrive at Ricard's aroma production plant in Bessan, a small village near Béziers, the anise essential oils undergo a purification process called rectification. The liquorice is also carefully processed. First it is crushed, then undergoes an exclusive three-stage hot maceration process that extracts the liquorice aromas and produces a perfectly even liquid. The various ingredients are then blended using a secret protocol which gives Ricard its consistent flavour and aromas. Lastly, the pastis is filtered three times before bottling.