Travarica is a type of rakija that is infused with local aromatic herbs. It is a traditional spirit usually associated with Croatian coastal regions. The base of the spirit is made with pomace or fruit brandy, while the choice and the number of herbs varies, usually depending on the area and the season.
Some of the most common options include sage, fennel, mint, chamomile, rosemary, lemon balm, anise, myrtle, thyme, marjoram, wormwood, and bay leaves. The herbs can be macerated for several days, weeks, or even months. After maceration, the spirit is filtered, and the plants are removed.
Croatian travarica has been granted protected status by the European Union. It is said that the herbs found in the Croatian coastal and mountainous regions are intensely aromatic, which creates a distinctive aromatic profile of this herbal spirit.
Apart from Croatia, travarica is traditionally made and enjoyed in several other Balkan countries. Travarica has a long history in the region, and it is believed that it was first made as a health remedy that would help ease stomach aches. Although many still believe in its healing properties, travarica is nowadays mainly enjoyed as an excellent aperitif or a digestif.