About
Rakia is Bulgaria's national spirit — a powerful fruit brandy distilled from grapes, plums, apricots, or quinces, typically 40–60% alcohol. Nearly every Bulgarian family makes its own in autumn. It's served at the start of every meal with meze (small bites), poured into small glasses and drunk slowly. Grape rakia (grozdova) and plum rakia (slivova) are the most common. Never refuse a host's homemade rakia — it's a profound gesture of welcome.