Tastings with Yebiga: The Plum Trilogy
The Plum Trilogy: Two Brandies, One Gin, and a New Tradition
There is a common thread that runs through the best spirits in the world: a fanatical devotion to the raw ingredient. At SF Tequila Shop, while our hearts often belong to the agave fields of Mexico, we are always on the lookout for artisans who treat their land and their traditions with that same level of reverence.
This Friday, we are stepping into the mountains of Serbia to introduce you to Yebiga. It is a tasting that explores the plum's incredible versatility. We will be pouring three distinct expressions: two traditional brandies and one revolutionary gin.
The Foundation:
The Balkan Plum In the Balkans, Rakija (plum brandy) isn't just a drink; it’s a cultural cornerstone. Yebiga honors this by using only hyperlocal plums and mountain spring water. There are no additives, no sugar, and no industrial shortcuts. Just fruit, fire, and time.
The Two Brandies: Prva & Bela
We start the flight with the classics. While they share the same DNA, their personalities are worlds apart:
- PRVA (The Aged One): This is the flagship. Aged for 18 months in Serbian oak, it takes on a deep amber hue. If you are a fan of Reposado tequila or fine Bourbon, this is for you. It’s a sophisticated sipper with notes of vanilla, toasted honey, and a long, spiced finish.
- BELA (The Pure One): This is Rakija in its most vibrant, transparent form. Rested in stainless steel rather than wood, it preserves the plum's crisp, floral essence. It is bright, aromatic, and incredibly clean, the perfect introduction for those new to the spirit.
The Wildcard: Kleka Serbian Gin
Perhaps the most intriguing pour of the afternoon is Kleka. Most gins on the market are built on a neutral grain spirit (essentially a vodka base). Yebiga takes a much more difficult, yet rewarding, path. They use their own double-distilled plum brandy as the base for their gin.
By infusing wild mountain juniper and botanicals into a fruit distillate, they’ve created a gin with a creamy, velvety mouthfeel that grain simply cannot replicate. It’s bold, botanical, and completely redefines what a "Gin & Tonic" or a "Negroni" can be.
Join Us This Friday
Whether you are a long-time fan of Slivovica or just curious about how a plum becomes a world-class gin, come by the shop this Friday. We’ll be pouring, sharing stories, and celebrating these "Mountain Spirits."
Tasting Details:
When: Friday, May 22
Time: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Where: SF Tequila Shop, 801 Cortland Ave, San Francisco
See you on Cortland!