Wikipedia defines Rakija as "an alcoholic beverage that is produced by distillation of fermented fruit". However Rakija is much more than that. Many consider it a national drink, something every Croatian from birth is exposed to. It is present at nearly every celebration. From weddings to birthdays and everything in between, hundreds and thousands of liters are devoured by Croatians around the world. Raising BAC's since the 14th century this highly toxic alcoholic beverage is and will forever be part of our culture.
The 10 Commandments of Rakija
1. Rakija as a temple
Often inscribed in religious text is the idea that we humans should treat our bodys as temples. Keeping it pure and natural as it houses the spirit. Well the same idea goes for rakija. It is sacred and never should you mix it with anything other than more rakija.
2. Drink Now Judge Later
Rakija is a heavy-duty drink and the taste can be compared to gasoline. However commenting on the taste is as useless as condoms at the Vatican. If you prefer drinking wine coolers.. ahh never mind not going to go there but main point; down it quick, don't worry about taste, and it will taste better and better as you drink more and more.
3. The Bottle Is The Rakija The Rakija Is The Soul
Of course the inside is important but the outside should not be forgotten. Many people prefer to use artistic and beautiful bottles to carry their rakija in. Often showcasing their family name, ethnicity, and hometown. Croatians take pride in their bottles, and showcasing them is common practice.
4. Sharing is Caring
If your drinking Rakija you better bring enough to share with everybody. Offering sips is seen as a must and failing to do so is treated like a felony.
5. Always Stay Strapped
Rakija culture has evolved over time and as people began bringing their bottles to more and more events, they got tired of carrying them in their hands. To solve this problem they attached straps to their bottles. Genius. So whenever you go out to party make sure your "strapped".
6. All or Nothing
Rakija is most often consumed in shots. Make sure when drinking you down your whole shot in one trusting motion, otherwise you will come across as a "pickica".
7. Steady Wins The Race
There is nothing worse when some hotshot thinks rakija must be like water and starts downing it as if he just ran a marathon in the Sahara. Well 30 minutes later.. down goes Frazier. My point is know your limit and if binge your going to end up on the floor next to a toilet regretting everything you just did.
8. Zivlijo
It is often customary and required to shout cheers or "zivlijo" before every shot. Failure to do so will result in confusion and panic.
9. Drive and Die
In all seriousness drinking and driving should never be tolerated especially after drinking rakija. Not only can you hurt yourself you can kill innocent others so STAY OFF THE ROAD.
10. Sing For The Moment
You will recognize that anywhere there is consumption of rakija there will be singing. Hugging arms and shouting your favorite songs is seen as normal and nobody will judge no matter how bad your voice may be. Hitting the right notes is not important here (actually fraunned upon), as long as sounds are exiting your mouth, your fine.
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