Badel Pelinkovac, the oldest and most famous Croatian herbal liqueur, originates from Croatia. Croatia, located in Southeast Europe, is known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culinary traditions. Pelinkovac, which means “wormwood liqueur” in Croatian, is deeply rooted in Croatian culture and has become an integral part of the country's drinking heritage.
The production of Badel Pelinkovac follows a traditional maceration method, where selected curative herbs are used, with the dominant herb being Pelin (lat. Artemisia absinthium). Pelin, also known as wormwood, is a bitter herb that gives the liqueur its distinctive taste and aroma. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its various health benefits.
The process of making Pelinkovac involves soaking the selected herbs, including Pelin, in a base alcohol, typically a grape or grain spirit. This maceration process allows the herbs to infuse their flavors into the alcohol, creating a unique and complex herbal profile. After the maceration period, the liqueur is typically sweetened with sugar or honey to balance out the bitterness of the herbs.
Croatia has a long history of herbal liqueur production, dating back to the time of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The recipe for Pelinkovac was developed in the late 19th century by pharmacist Franjo Badel, who founded the Badel company in Zagreb, Croatia. The company has since become one of the leading producers of alcoholic beverages in Croatia and continues to produce Badel Pelinkovac using traditional methods.
Pelinkovac is not only popular in Croatia but has also gained recognition and popularity beyond its borders. It is often enjoyed as an aperitif or digestif, with its bitter and herbal flavors believed to aid digestion. The versatile nature of Pelinkovac allows it to be consumed neat, on the rocks, or used as an ingredient in cocktails.
Personally, I have had the pleasure of trying Badel Pelinkovac during my visit to Croatia. The rich herbal flavors and bitter undertones make it a truly unique liqueur. I particularly enjoyed sipping it as a digestif after a hearty Croatian meal, as it helped to cleanse the palate and aid in digestion.
Pelinkovac is a Croatian herbal liqueur that is deeply rooted in the country's culture and history. Its origins date back to the late 19th century, and it is produced using a traditional maceration method with a focus on the dominant herb Pelin. Badel Pelinkovac, produced by the Badel company in Croatia, is the most famous and best-selling herbal liqueur in the country. Its bitter and herbal flavors make it a popular choice for both locals and visitors alike.