Rakia

Rakia or Rakija (in Albanian: Raki; in Bulgarian: Pакия; in Macedonian: Pакија, in Serbian, Croatian and Bosnian: Rakija) is a Brandy obtained by distillation of fermented fruit, very popular in the Balkans. The low quality Rakia is commonly called Brlja, literally "mess", while if distilled twice it is obtained a superior product which takes name Prepečenica. The Rakia is considered the national drink of Bulgaria, Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, the Republic of Macedonia and Serbia. The Slivovitz, one of the most popular varieties, is produced from plums. It can be also distilled from grapes, peaches, apricots, apples, figs and cherries. The Rakia made from plums and grapes can be mixed with other flavorings such as herbs, honey, unripe apples and nuts. Slivovitz, Travarica and Lozovac are more common Rakija types in Croatia. The Vilijamovka obtained from pears is very popular in Serbia. There are several types of Rakia, according to the fruit from which it is produced: among them there are some aged in wooden barrels, usually oak or mulberry tree, for an extra flavour and a golden brown color. And there is a renowed Rakia "Grejana", that are tasted warmed and sweetened with honey or sugar. Usually it has an alcohol volume of 40%, which can reach even up to 60% for home-made Rakia.