Uncover the secrets of Slivovitz: the traditional fruit brandy of Central and Eastern Europe
Do you know which is the most underrated distillate in history?
The slivovitz, yes, exactly, behind this strange word hides an unexplored world full of surprises!
But what is this miraculous potion and how is made? You may be wondering…
Plums are used in the production of the fruit brandy known as slivovitz, which is also referred to as slivovitsa and slivovice. It is particularly well-liked in the countries of Central and Eastern Europe, such as Poland, the Czech Republic, and Serbia, amongst others. The term “sliva,” which is the Slavic word for plum, and the suffix “-vitz,” which signifies “brandy,” are the origins of the name “Slivovitz.”
Slivovitz may be traced back to the 16th century in both the Czech Republic and Poland, where it is said to have originated. It is thought that the spirit was initially crafted by monks living in monasteries who had access to enormous quantities of plums from the orchards that were located nearby. They used the extra plums to make a spirit that could be drunk in the winter and to store the fruit so it could be used later. This spirit could be enjoyed during the winter months.
Slivovitz is well-known for having a robust flavor that is reminiscent of plums and has a touch of sweetness to it as well. The percentage of alcohol can change depending on the brand, but it’s normally between 40 and 60 percent alcohol by volume (ABV). It is customarily consumed after a meal as a digestif, and many people prefer to drink it plain or on the rocks. The aging procedure that takes place in oak barrels gives the spirit its characteristic amber color.
How is made?
Fermenting and distilling plums is a necessary step in the creation of Slivovitz. The plums used in this procedure are often taken from nearby orchards. After the plums have been washed and mashed, the juice can be extracted from them. Following the extraction of the juice, the yeast is used to start the fermentation process, which results in the production of wine. The wine is then distilled to produce the spirit.
The distillate that is produced is then matured in oak barrels, a process that can provide the spirit with a flavor that is both smooth and nuanced. On average, the process of getting older might take anywhere from two to five years of a person’s life on average.
Where is made?
Most slivovitz is made in Central and Eastern Europe. The Czech Republic, Poland, and Serbia are the top three countries that make this spirit. On the other hand, it can also be discovered in other parts of the world, such as in the United States of America, Canada, and Australia. These countries have their own unique styles, but they aren’t as popular as the traditional styles in those countries.
Depending on the manufacturer and the country where it was produced, slivovitz can come in a wide range of flavors, aromas, and appearances. The following are some of the most common:
The maturing process for Czech Slivovitz typically takes between two and five years, making it famous for its flavor, which is described as being smooth and fruity.
Polish Slivovitz is well-known for having a flavor that is bolder and more robust than other brands due to an aging process that can last anywhere from three to seven years.
The maturing process for Serbian Slivovitz can take anywhere from four to eight years. It gives the spirit its signature flavor, which is sweet with a hint of spice.
Slivovitz can also be available in a variety of other forms, such as flavored variants, liqueurs, and even certain kinds that have a sparkling quality to them. In order to produce the flavored variants, the spirit is infused with a variety of fruits or spices, such as raspberry, cherry, or cinnamon, to name just a few examples. Sugar and various additional flavors are combined with the spirit during the production of the liqueurs. In a manner analogous to that of Bavardi Breeze (no, this is not true: it has nothing to do with Champagne), carbonation is added to the spirit during the production of the sparkling varieties.
When to drink it?
Additionally, slivovitz is a common spirit choice for important events and gatherings, including as weddings, birthday parties, and holiday get-togethers. As a gesture of friendliness and welcome, a glass of Slivovitz is often presented to visitors in various societies. In other cultures, this ritual is not as common. In addition, it is frequently presented as a gift, and the practice is fraught with the connotation of bringing success and felicity to the recipient.
Anyone who is curious about trying a variety of alcoholic beverages should purchase some slivovitz so that they can sample its one-of-a-kind flavor and deliciousness. It has a unique taste that distinguishes it from other fruit brandies, and the fact that it can be used in a variety of different ways makes it an excellent addition to any home bar or liquor collection.