When we hear the word rakija , we first think of the Balkan countries – Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Montenegro – where this strong fruit distillate has a long history and cultural role. But does Slovenia also have its own version of rakija?
What is rakia anyway?
Rakija is a spirit made by distilling fermented fruit – most commonly plums ( šljivovica ), grapes ( lozovača ), apricots, pears, apples or figs. In the Balkan countries, rakija is often home-made, part of tradition, present at celebrations, weddings and even funerals. It is more than just alcohol – it is part of identity.
Slovenian tradition of žganjekuha
Slovenia does not have a product called rakija , but it has a long tradition of žganjekuhe. The most famous Slovenian brandy is certainly fruit brandy , especially pear , apple or plum brandy . In wine-growing regions such as Primorska, tropinovec – brandy made from grape pomace – is distilled.
In essence, these Slovenian spirits are very similar to rakia, except that they are usually called differently and are often associated with local origin.
So is rakia also Slovenian?
Although the word rakija is not used that often in Slovenia (except perhaps among residents along the Croatian border or in Prekmurje), many local Žganjekuči produce Žganjes that are not inferior in quality, process and content to Balkan rakijas. In fact, you could say that a Slovenian version of rakija exists – it's just called domače žganje, sadjevec or tropinovec.
The first real Slovenian brandy: Ta Fina
In recent years, a brand has also emerged that clearly and proudly presents itself as the first Slovenian brandy – this is t aFina .
TaFina was created in response to the demand of Slovenian customers for a fruit brandy that is drinkable, aromatic, light and affordable . In production , only the best fruit from Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina is used, and distillation is carried out using a modern fractional distiller , which provides a soft and rich aromatic note , recognizable from the first sip.
This Fina is essentially a "little Balkan child" , as the creators say - mostly Serbian fruit, processed in Bosnia, but all shaped according to Slovenian requirements and taste . Thus, the first Slovenian brandy with a distinct Balkan character and Slovenian soul was created.
Slovenian answer to the Balkan classic
Although Slovenia may not have rakia in the traditional sense of the word, it certainly has rakia in its soul . Home-made fruit and grape brandies are part of the cultural heritage, reflected in local production, celebrations and respect for tradition. And with the advent of taFina, Slovenians have gained something more – their own rakia , which combines the best of the Balkans with the taste and demands of the Slovenian consumer.
