Borovička

Borovička is a Slovak juniper-flavoured spirit, clear or golden in colour, with a taste reminiscent of dry gin but considerably stronger. It is especially popular in Slovakia and the Czech Republic, where it is among the most recognisable local spirits.

History

The name comes from the Slovak word for juniper, borievka, according to The Dictionary of the Slovak Language. The drink is recorded from the 16th century in the county of Liptov, within the Habsburg monarchy, in what is now central Slovakia.

From there it was sold across the monarchy, particularly in Vienna and Budapest. Barrels and goods moved south by raft down the River Váh, which helped spread it beyond its place of origin.

Traditional production uses two rounds of distillation with ripe berries of Juniperus communis and, less often, Juniperus oxycedrus. Commercial bottles usually reach about 40% alcohol by volume, though much stronger versions exist, and Slovak law sets a minimum of 35%.

Culture

Borovička is part of everyday social life in Slovakia, drunk as a digestif or a glass to accompany conversation, and it remains easy to find in shops and bars. Related drinks exist in neighbouring South Slavic countries, such as Slovenia's brinjevec, whose name also means juniper, and Serbia's klekovača.

It is drunk with similar ease in the Czech Republic, where several brands have loyal followings. Outside the region it is often compared to gin, including Dutch jenever, although its character is sharper and more forceful.

International Juniper Brandy Day is held every year on 24 June, a date that reflects the drink's attachment to its home region.