WHAT IS RAKIA?
From Bulgaria's stills to Your Glass, Rakia is an experience that brings people together.
“A psychotherapist can help you but rakia is cheaper” – this is a contemporary proverb many Bulgarians swear by. Every foreigner who is lucky enough to be invited over for a dinner by Bulgarians will have a glass of this national drink served to them. It is considered an act of perfect hospitality and good intentions.
WHAT IS RAKIA?
From Bulgaria's stills to Your Glass, Rakia is an experience that brings people together.
“A psychotherapist can help you but rakia is cheaper” – this is a contemporary proverb many Bulgarians swear by. Every foreigner who is lucky enough to be invited over for a dinner by Bulgarians will have a glass of this national drink served to them. It is considered an act of perfect hospitality and good intentions.
The Name
Rakia is the collective term for fruit brandy very popular in Central and Southeast Europe. Because it’s made from fruits, it’s categorized as “brandy”, but it’s nothing like brandy – it’s way better. It can be made with many fruits but grape and plum are the most popular. It’s known for being very unique and strong and providing a great feeling.
The History
Rakia has a great history. Bulgarian archaeologists discovered a fragment from a Rakia distillation vessel that dates all the way back to the 11th century, proving that Bulgaria was the birthplace of Rakia. However, It was in 1382 that others outside Bulgaria learned about this powerful beverage. In that year the Ottomans were busy trying to conquer Bulgaria. It was during their siege of Sofia (Bulgaria’s capital) that their witness to the magic of Rakia was recorded.
The Ottoman commander suffered a demeaning loss to the Bulgarians and he explained the defeat by stating "Sofia was defended by tough men who drank Rakia before the fight and thus became invincible."
One of the most unique aspects of Rakia is how intertwined it is with the social fabric of the Balkans. From the 11th century until today, it’s common for many homes and almost all farms to have there own homemade Rakia still. Homemade Rakia is a thing of pride and those that make it have passed it down from generation to generation. It has authentically been “craft and small batch” before the phrase became popular.
Miramar Does it All
Clear and versatile, Miramar can be enjoyed neat, over ice, in your favorite cocktail, and paired with your favorite foods.
DISCOVER HOW MIRAMAR IS MADE >