Rakija is a spirit produced by distilling fermented grapes or fruits.

Broad historical frame of rakija allows many to consider it their national drink. Origin of the word rakija has numerous interpretations from which none can be verified as the truth. It's presumed that it's derived from the Arabian word "araki", adjective of the noun "arak", meaning "sweat". In the records from early 13th century, found in Tavna monastery between Bijeljina and Ugljevik, words "rakija" and "kazan" are used. Slivovica, plum rakija, is the first "geographical indication" protected Serbian brand. Homemade rakija made using recipe from the Slivovica village, located in the western part of Serbia, was granted EU certificate. Birthplace of slivovica was sought throughout history and it was finally found in 1868. Scientists found the recipe in the village of Slivovica and named plum rakija the same as the village. Sljivovica festival is held annually in the village more like a promotion of slivovica then simply a tourist attraction. It's believed that existence of slivovica precedes existence of cognac or whiskey. Still in Serbian countryside is common practice for men to drink a shot of rakija upon awakening. It's believed to protect against viruses and stimulate blood circulation. In some parts of Serbia slivovica is served with coffee and Turkish delights, and it's present at all events, good or bad.

Basic operations in sljivovica production process are: plum picking, cleaning, chopping, fermenting, distilling and ageing . Picking is usually done by manually shaking the trees. Collected plums are then taken to be cleaned from impurities and undesired micro-flora. For highest quality slivovica double distillation process is used. Slivovica is known for its healing properties. Unfortunately in large quantities even medicines become toxic. For ages a shot of slivovica is used to stimulate blood circulation, ease stomach pain, as aperitif and as digestive. Externally it can be used as disinfectant, muscle relaxant and antipyretic. And to recapitulate, first Serbian patent was "kazan", a sort of cauldron used for rakija distillation. It was patented by Milan Jovanovic from Novi Sad in 1909. Cheers!