7/2/2026 | Discovering Grappa
Grape Spirit: a Tradition Spanning Centuries and Regions
Grape Spirit: a Tradition Spanning Centuries and Regions
According to the definition of the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV), grape brandy is a "spirit beverage obtained by the distillation of fresh fermented grapes with the result that the distillate retains the taste and aroma of the above-mentioned raw materials", with a minimum alcoholic strength of 37.5% ABV.
As part of the broader family of vitivinicultural distillates, which have deep historical roots in Italy and across Europe, grape brandy emerged as a distinct commercial category in Italy primarily during the second half of the 20th century. However, its production and consumption date back much further, although in less standardized forms and outside the framework of today's market classifications.
Historically, grape spirits have been produced since the Late Middle Ages in several local traditions, particularly in the Balkans and in Central and Eastern Europe, where they are known respectively as Lozovača and Hroznovica.
Both are made by fermenting and then distilling crushed fresh grapes, resulting in spirits with an alcoholic strength typically ranging between 40% and 45% ABV. Homemade versions-known as domaća or domáca, depending on the language-can exceed 45% ABV. They are traditionally enjoyed neat, at room temperature or slightly chilled, either as an aperitif or a digestif.
Lozovača (Loza): The Grape Spirit of the Balkans
Lozovača is one of the most widespread and appreciated varieties of rakija, the traditional fruit brandy produced throughout the Balkans. It is especially popular in Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and other countries of the former Yugoslavia. Its name derives from the Slavic word loza, meaning "vine". With its rich, aromatic character, Lozovača preserves the fruity notes of the grape variety from which it is made. A symbol of local hospitality, it is traditionally offered to welcome guests into the home and is also enjoyed during everyday meals and social gatherings.
Hroznovica: The Grape Spirit of Slovakia and the Czech Republic
Typical of Slovakia and the Czech Republic, Hroznovica takes its name from the Slovak word hrozno ("grape") and the Czech word hrozen ("grape cluster"). It is a nuanced grape spirit with fruity, floral, and sometimes spicy aromas that reflect the characteristics of the grape variety used. Like Lozovača, Hroznovica is closely associated with hospitality and is traditionally served during festive celebrations, weddings, and family gatherings.
Grappa and Grape Spirit: What's the Difference?
In this context, it is important to distinguish these products from Italian Grappa, which represents a specific and legally protected category. Grappa is recognised as a Geographical Indication (GI) and is produced exclusively by distilling grape pomace-that is, the skins, seeds, and other solid residues remaining after the winemaking process.
The essential difference therefore lies in the raw material: grape spirit is distilled from fermented fresh grapes, while Grappa is distilled exclusively from grape pomace.
Watch the video:
Jacopo Poli Explains the Difference Between Grappa and Grape Brandy
Sources
• https://www.oiv.int/standards/international-code-of-oenological-practices/part-i-definitions/spirits%2C-alcohols-and-spirit-beverages-of-vitinicultural-origin
As part of the broader family of vitivinicultural distillates, which have deep historical roots in Italy and across Europe, grape brandy emerged as a distinct commercial category in Italy primarily during the second half of the 20th century. However, its production and consumption date back much further, although in less standardized forms and outside the framework of today's market classifications.
Historically, grape spirits have been produced since the Late Middle Ages in several local traditions, particularly in the Balkans and in Central and Eastern Europe, where they are known respectively as Lozovača and Hroznovica.
Both are made by fermenting and then distilling crushed fresh grapes, resulting in spirits with an alcoholic strength typically ranging between 40% and 45% ABV. Homemade versions-known as domaća or domáca, depending on the language-can exceed 45% ABV. They are traditionally enjoyed neat, at room temperature or slightly chilled, either as an aperitif or a digestif.
Lozovača (Loza): The Grape Spirit of the Balkans
Lozovača is one of the most widespread and appreciated varieties of rakija, the traditional fruit brandy produced throughout the Balkans. It is especially popular in Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and other countries of the former Yugoslavia. Its name derives from the Slavic word loza, meaning "vine". With its rich, aromatic character, Lozovača preserves the fruity notes of the grape variety from which it is made. A symbol of local hospitality, it is traditionally offered to welcome guests into the home and is also enjoyed during everyday meals and social gatherings.
Hroznovica: The Grape Spirit of Slovakia and the Czech Republic
Typical of Slovakia and the Czech Republic, Hroznovica takes its name from the Slovak word hrozno ("grape") and the Czech word hrozen ("grape cluster"). It is a nuanced grape spirit with fruity, floral, and sometimes spicy aromas that reflect the characteristics of the grape variety used. Like Lozovača, Hroznovica is closely associated with hospitality and is traditionally served during festive celebrations, weddings, and family gatherings.
Grappa and Grape Spirit: What's the Difference?
In this context, it is important to distinguish these products from Italian Grappa, which represents a specific and legally protected category. Grappa is recognised as a Geographical Indication (GI) and is produced exclusively by distilling grape pomace-that is, the skins, seeds, and other solid residues remaining after the winemaking process.
The essential difference therefore lies in the raw material: grape spirit is distilled from fermented fresh grapes, while Grappa is distilled exclusively from grape pomace.
Watch the video:
Jacopo Poli Explains the Difference Between Grappa and Grape Brandy
Sources
• https://www.oiv.int/standards/international-code-of-oenological-practices/part-i-definitions/spirits%2C-alcohols-and-spirit-beverages-of-vitinicultural-origin
