HONEY DRINKS: DO YOU KNOW THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MEDOVAČA, MEDOVINA AND MEDICA?

The name says it all – sweet as honey! Medovača. And while we're on the subject of this honey-based brandy, the terms medovača, medovina, and medica are often mixed up.

PHOTO: ilustracija

So before ordering a "honey rakija" at a bar, it might be helpful to know the difference between these drinks—just so you don’t end up with honey wine instead of brandy.

Medovača (also known as honey brandy or honey liqueur) is a spirit made through redistillation of fermented honey. Before redistillation, a solution of honey and water is fermented for 72 days. Afterward, a specific type of honey and propolis is added for flavor and aroma.

Medovina is honey wine, once considered a drink of the gods by the ancient Slavs. This honey nectar was consumed in ancient Greece and medieval Serbia, but today it’s rarely produced or consumed.

Medica, on the other hand, is essentially fruit brandy with the addition of natural honey. It often contains propolis, royal jelly, and other natural ingredients, giving it certain health benefits.

Medovača is honey brandy, and when consumed in moderation, it brings both strength and health.