Plum Brandy (Šljivovica): A Serbian Tradition Distilled to Perfection
Plum brandy (rakija), or šljivovica, made its international debut in 1938 at the Agricultural Fair in Milan. Thanks to its exceptional quality and cultural value, it has been gaining global popularity ever since. In 2022, šljivovica was officially inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Serbia accounts for 12% of the world’s plum production, and as much as 80% of the country’s plum yield is used for making brandy.
But šljivovica is much more than just a fruit brandy—it embodies tradition, love, respect, pride, memory, origin, and life itself. Behind every drop lies a journey of care and craftsmanship, culminating in a plum distillate of the highest quality.
At the heart of Gen Distillery’s šljivovica is the “Čačanska Lepotica” (Beauty of Čačak) plum variety—a premium, early-ripening cultivar known for its consistent and abundant yield. On over 8 hectares of orchards in the gentle hills of Lipar, where a natural rose of winds ensures optimal ventilation and fruit health, these plums thrive under our attentive care, patience, and deep understanding of each stage of their growth. After fermentation and distillation, the double-distilled brandy—typically 60 to 70% alcohol—is aged in 500-liter oak barrels (barrique), and then cold stabilized in stainless steel tanks at –2°C to preserve its purity and character.
Enjoying šljivovica should be a refined ritual—from the ambiance to the choice of glass, every detail matters. To uncover the subtle layers of this spirit, forget about time, surrender to the moment, and explore its rich spectrum of flavors and aromas.
Paired with carefully chosen dishes that match the complexity of šljivovica’s bouquet, the experience reaches new levels of indulgence. For a safe and classic pairing, opt for light appetizers or cured meats. But when your adventurous side calls, venture into new culinary territories and craft your own rules—let šljivovica be your guide on a journey of flavor discovery.
