The Most Famous Gin and Tonic Brands from Serbia
Serbia is internationally known for its rakija (fruit brandy), wine, and beer traditions, but in recent years it has also become part of the global gin renaissance. Driven by a new wave of craft distillers and Serbia’s thriving bar culture in Belgrade, gin has emerged as a stylish, urban spirit.
What makes Serbian gin unique is its reliance on local botanicals from the Balkans — wild juniper berries, plums, raspberries, linden flowers, mountain herbs, and even peppers. Gin & tonic has quickly gained popularity in Serbia, especially in Belgrade’s trendy Dorćol and Savamala districts, where cocktail culture is booming.
A Short History of Gin in Serbia
For most of the 20th century, gin in Serbia meant imports like Gordon’s, Beefeater, and Tanqueray, found in hotels, expat circles, and upscale bars. Local production was virtually nonexistent, as rakija remained the national spirit.
The change came in the 2010s, when Serbian entrepreneurs and master distillers — inspired by craft spirit trends in Europe — began experimenting with small-batch gins. Today, Serbia has several artisanal gins that reflect the country’s terroir, alongside international brands that remain widely consumed.
Famous Serbian Gin Brands
1. Monologue Dry Gin – The Serbian Flagship
Distillery: Monologue Spirits, Belgrade
Monologue is one of Serbia’s first premium craft gin brands.
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Botanicals: Juniper, linden blossom, chamomile, wild mint, raspberry leaves, and Balkan spices.
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Style: Smooth, aromatic, floral, with subtle fruitiness.
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Reputation: A benchmark Serbian gin, showcased in Belgrade’s top cocktail bars.
2. Kraljevo Dry Gin – The Royal Connection
Distillery: Kraljevo region, Central Serbia
A boutique gin inspired by Serbia’s royal heritage and natural landscape.
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Botanicals: Juniper, plum blossom, thyme, and local mountain herbs.
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Style: Herbal and crisp, with hints of plum sweetness.
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Reputation: A small-batch gin, popular among collectors and enthusiasts.
3. Juniperus Balkan Gin – Tradition in a Bottle
Produced in limited quantities, this gin focuses on wild juniper harvested in Serbia’s mountains.
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Botanicals: Juniper, forest herbs, pepper, and citrus peel.
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Style: Earthy, robust, with a bold Balkan identity.
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Reputation: Valued for its authenticity and strong connection to Serbian nature.
4. Mikser Gin – The Belgrade Urban Spirit
Created in partnership with Belgrade’s cultural and nightlife scene, Mikser Gin is aimed at younger gin drinkers.
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Botanicals: Juniper, citrus, basil, and Balkan berries.
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Style: Fresh and light, designed for cocktails.
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Reputation: Trendy, associated with Belgrade’s modern mixology.
5. Other Emerging Serbian Gins
Several micro-distilleries in Vojvodina and southern Serbia are experimenting with gins infused with lavender, plum, raspberry, and honey. These remain niche but highlight the country’s creative potential.
Imported Gin Brands in Serbia
Imported brands still dominate Serbia’s gin market:
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Beefeater, Gordon’s, Tanqueray – Widely available.
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Bombay Sapphire – A premium option in Belgrade’s cocktail bars.
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Hendrick’s – Popular among mixologists for cucumber-based serves.
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Spanish Gins (Gin Mare, Nordés, Puerto de Indias) – Increasingly trendy in upscale Mediterranean restaurants.
Tonics in Serbia
1. Schweppes Tonic Water
The most common and widely available tonic brand in Serbia.
2. Fever-Tree (Imported Premium)
Highly popular in Belgrade’s upscale cocktail lounges and gin bars.
3. Local Craft Tonics (Emerging)
A few Serbian soda makers are experimenting with small-batch tonic waters infused with herbs like mint, linden, or raspberry, though these are not yet mainstream.
Serbia’s Gin & Tonic Culture Today
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Belgrade Hotspot: The capital’s nightlife has embraced gin & tonic, with gin menus in bars like Beton Hala, Dorćol Platz, and Savamala clubs.
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Serving Style: Inspired by the Spanish gin-tonic tradition, often served in balloon glasses with elaborate garnishes.
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Garnishes: Plum slices, raspberries, herbs (mint, thyme, basil), and citrus peels.
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Cultural Identity: Serbian gin combines Western gin-making techniques with Balkan fruits and herbs, creating a unique regional style.
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Trend: Younger generations view gin & tonic as a sophisticated alternative to rakija or beer, especially in urban settings.
Conclusion
Serbia may be new to gin production, but it has already developed a distinct craft identity. With pioneering brands like Monologue Dry Gin, regional expressions like Kraljevo Dry Gin, and experimental labels like Juniperus Balkan and Mikser Gin, Serbia is building a strong reputation in the Balkans’ gin scene.
Paired with Schweppes or Fever-Tree, and garnished with plum, raspberry, or mountain herbs, Serbian gin & tonics offer a refreshing fusion of tradition and modernity.
For gin enthusiasts, sipping a Serbian G&T is not just about the drink — it’s an exploration of the Balkans’ landscapes, flavors, and cosmopolitan spirit.
