Rakija Cocktails
Balkia cocktail recipes are made by professional bartenders in Switzerland
Each recipe is a testament to the versatility of Slivovitz, showcasing how this traditional spirit can be the foundation for innovative and sophisticated drinks. Our curated collection invites both connoisseurs and curious explorers alike to experience the delightful fusion of Balkia’s heritage Plum Brandy with the creativity of modern mixology.
Indulge in the alchemy of flavors where Slivovitz Rakija reveals its full potential, blending seamlessly into cocktails that promise to enchant your palate and elevate your spirits.
History of
Rakija in Cocktails
The tale of Rakija, particularly Slivovitz, the revered Plum Brandy, is steeped in Balkan tradition, where it has been savored neat for centuries, often as a warm welcome to guests and a fixture at celebrations. Historically, Rakija was not merely a drink, but a cultural emblem, deeply intertwined with the region’s social and culinary tapestry. As a distilled beverage made from the region’s abundant fruit, it was the essence of local craftsmanship and agrarian spirit.
Transitioning from a homely hearth to the sophisticated bars of Europe, Slivovitz’s journey into the cocktail scene is a more recent phenomenon. It began to gain prominence as mixologists around the world started to explore more diverse and bold flavors. The unique profile of Slivovitz, with its robust fruit notes and smooth finish, offered a new dimension to cocktail creation.
The evolution of Rakija into a mixologist’s staple can be attributed to the global craft cocktail movement, which began to flourish in the late 20th and very beginning of the 21st century. Bartenders started to look beyond traditional spirits, seeking out regional liquors that could provide a unique twist to classic recipes. Slivovitz, with its rich heritage and distinctive taste, became a natural choice for those looking to innovate.
In Switzerland, known for its discerning taste in spirits and cocktails, professional bartenders have embraced Slivovitz, elevating it from a traditional sipping spirit to a versatile cocktail base. Here, it is not just the taste but the story of Rakija that adds depth to the cocktail experience – each mix is a nod to the past, reimagined for the contemporary palate.
