What Is Albanian Raki? A Beginner’s Guide
Walk into an Albanian home and the first thing you are offered is often a small glass of raki. Before the coffee, before the conversation, there is a toast. Raki is how Albanians say welcome, and it is part of every wedding, holiday and harvest.
If you have never tried it, here is what to know.
What Is Raki?
Raki (say RAH kee) is a clear fruit brandy, most often made from grapes. It is typically 40 to 50 percent alcohol, about as strong as whiskey or vodka.
One thing surprises many people. Albanian raki contains no anise. Turkish raki and Greek ouzo taste of licorice, while Albanian raki tastes of the fruit it was made from.
What Is It Made From?
Grape raki, called raki rrushi, is the default everywhere in Albania. It is often distilled from the skins and seeds left over after winemaking, much like Italian grappa. Plum raki, raki kumbulle, is more common in the north and the highlands, and it tends to be softer and fruitier. Mulberry raki, raki mani, is found mostly in inland villages and has a rounder, almost honeyed sweetness.
Some producers also finish their raki with honey, herbs, sour cherries or walnuts after distillation, which gives each bottle its own character.
| Raki | Made From | Where You Find It |
|---|---|---|
| Raki rrushi | Grapes | Everywhere |
| Raki kumbulle | Plums | The north and the highlands |
| Raki mani | Mulberries | Inland villages |
How Is It Made?
The fruit is crushed and left to ferment until its natural sugars turn into alcohol. The fermented mash is then heated slowly in a still. The distiller sets aside the first and last parts of the run and keeps only the heart, and that judgment is where a good raki is made or lost. Some raki is then aged in oak, which softens it and adds color and depth.
How Do Albanians Drink It?
Raki is served at room temperature in a small glass and sipped slowly, never rushed. It almost always comes with food. A simple meze might be white cheese drizzled with olive oil, a few olives, some gjiz (a fresh curd cheese), and cured meats or a salad.
Before the first sip, raise your glass and say Gëzuar (say geh ZOO ar), which means cheers.
Curious about the grapes behind grape raki? Read our guide to Albanian wine regions. Ready to pour your first glass? Explore our raki collection. Gëzuar.