For all of you who are not familiar with the type of brandy named “pelinkovac” a short introduction. It’s a bitter brandy made out of healing herbs with a dark amber color and a strong taste. If you are a fan of Jaggermmaister, trying pelinkovac should be on top of your list, because it’s way better.
Badel is one of the pioneers of pelinkovac making on the Balkans, and still one of the leaders in its production. Antique series of this drink is quite rare and made by the original recipe of its inventor Franjo Pokorny. It’s made of 20 different herbs and packed in a vintage bottle with a worn label.
This pelinkovac is serious in so many ways it’s almost impossible to describe it. The design of the package is stunning for sure, but it’s texture, smell and taste are pure, like heaven.
Each Antique spends at least seven years inside of a barrel. All until it soaks the darkness of its insides. The color of this pelinkovac is almost black but still see-through. Once the cork is off intoxicant aroma comes out. The smell of herbs is so hard it will enchant you instantly. It reminds a bit of some old-school medicine, or elixir actually.
Once your nose gets used to the smell your pallet will be confused. It runs so smooth to your stomach, leaving so many different tastes behind. This is why you should drink it slowly, so you can sense a note of every herb that makes its essence.
In the end, your stomach will appreciate it, since pelinkovac is also a stomach cure. It’s highly recommended with digestion issues, but one shot a day won’t hurt maintenance of your stomach flora.
Even though this version of pelinkovac is very limited it’s possible to buy this brandy in the UK. It takes some effort, but it’s possible. Treat yourself to a high-quality drink with a tradition and a story. Antique is the salve for senses, body, and spirit altogether.