Rakija Distillery Guided Tour and Tasting

Upon your arrival, a knowledgeable tour guide will warmly welcome you and lead you on an engaging journey through the distillery. You'll gain insight into the essence of agritourism and discover the unique experiences and handcrafted products we proudly offer. This is not just a tasting — it’s an agritourism experience designed to connect you with the land and the culture of North Macedonia. Far from crowds and noise, a valley is a peaceful sanctuary, ideal for nature lovers, culture seekers, and anyone curious to taste something real. Whether you're relaxing on the terrace overlooking the river or sipping rakija in the underground cellar, every corner of Distillery Balaklija invites you to slow down and soak in the beauty.

Your journey continues with a relaxing and flavorful pause. You’ll be welcomed to a beautifully set tasting area, either outdoors surrounded by nature or in a cozy indoor space, depending on the season. Here, you'll enjoy a delicious spread of traditional Macedonian food — all locally produced right here on the estate. The table will feature a selection of artisan cheeses made with fresh milk from nearby farms, homemade bread, and seasonal produce grown in the gardens. Every ingredient is thoughtfully prepared to reflect the flavors and culinary heritage of the region. As you savor these authentic bites, you'll be invited to taste several of homemade Macedonian wines, each carefully paired with the food on your plate. You’ll learn about traditional winemaking methods — all while enjoying the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. This part of the tour is not just about tasting — it’s about connection: to the land, people, and the centuries-old traditions that shape every taste.

Once you've indulged your senses with food and wine, the experience is wrapped out with a short walk through the vineyard and orchards (season and weather permitting). Your guide will share insights about farming practices, the cycle of the grapes and fruit we grow, and how everything you’ve tasted comes full circle — from field to bottle.

In the second part of the tour, you'll be guided into the atmospheric underground cellar, where the rich aroma of oak barrels fills the air. Here, premium spirits rest and mature under carefully maintained conditions. You'll discover how the rakija and fruit liqueurs come to life, learning about the craftsmanship and tradition behind every bottle. A tasting experience follows, where you'll be invited to sample of rakija and a selection of flavorful fruit liqueurs. Your guide will introduce the unique character of each spirit, explain the detailed production process, and engage all your senses to ensure a truly memorable experience.