Plum rakia registered on the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage

Marking births and deaths. In joy or grief. For welcomes or farewells. For family gatherings and gatherings of all generations. In every house and in every pub or restaurant. Occasions are countless, but the drink is always the same – šljivovica, plum rakia.

It has been made in Serbia for centuries. The recipe and enjoying the occasional glass of rakia is a tradition that is passed down from generation to generation. We have always known that it is part of our identity. Now the rest of the world will become aware, as  šljivovica has been included in the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

The nomination brings together the culture of plum growing, traditional crafts, customs, rakia making and its consumption. Serbian plums are said to be better than, say, Polish or German plums. They like our climate and many sunny days. When autochthonous varieties are added to that, high quality smooth rakia is guaranteed. Experienced producers know when the time is right to harvest, when the ideal moment to make the brandy is, and when to pour it from barrels into bottles.

Annually, around 60 million tons of rakia from various fruits are produced in Serbia. Mostly plum. Many hosts welcome domestic and foreign guests with a glass of their favorite Serbian drink. In winter days, it can also warm you. Don't miss the traditional Serbian welcome!