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.
Šljivovica is far more than just a fruit brandy. It embodies tradition, love, respect, pride, and the spirit of life itself. Every drop tells a story — one of care, patience, and craftsmanship — resulting in a plum brandy of the highest quality.
At the heart of GeN Distillery’s šljivovica lies the Čačanska Lepotica (“Beauty of Čačak”) plum — a premium, early-ripening variety prized for its rich aroma and consistent yield. Grown across more than eight hectares of orchards in the hills of Lipar, these plums flourish in an ideal microclimate where natural winds keep the fruit healthy and vibrant.
After careful fermentation and double distillation, the brandy — typically 60–70% alcohol — matures in 500-liter oak barrels, where it develops depth and harmony. Finally, it is cold-stabilized at –2°C in stainless steel tanks to preserve its purity and authentic 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.
