Raki is an iconic and beloved spirit beverage in Albania. It is made of various fruits and herbs, such as grapes, plums, blackberries, and white oregano from the south of the country. Raki is popular among the elderly population who typically enjoy it heated with honey or sugar and accompanied by spices. It is even traditional to serve Raki during special events such as birthdays and anniversaries.
The production of Raki is a long process that begins with crushing the chosen fruit or herb in order to extract its juice. The juice is then fermented in wooden barrels or clay jars at a low temperature for several weeks before being distilled twice in alembic stills. Following this, it can be aged for several months in clay jars or bottles according to taste preference. The resulting product has a bold flavor with a distinct aroma that some describe as having notes of apple, peach, apricot, figs, cinnamon, licorice and rosemary.
Raki’s popularity continues to grow throughout Albania due to its unique flavor profile and sentimental value. Today, it is widely available from commercial vendors as well as local markets where friendly conversations over glasses of Raki still take place on warm summer night
