🥃 Pomace brandy

Pomace brandy is a strong drink distilled from grape pomace. Pomace is the skins, seeds and stems left after the juice is pressed. It is not thrown away but used to make spirit. Such drinks are made in many wine-producing countries. Under different names they are known around the world. In Italy it is grappa, in France marc, in Spain orujo, in Greece tsipouro, in Cyprus zivania, in Hungary törkölypálinka, in Georgia chacha. In the Balkans grape rakia is also often made from pomace. They differ in strength and taste, but the principle is the same. The drink is made like this: pomace with a little leftover juice ferments, and is then distilled. Strength is usually 40 to 60 percent. The taste depends on the grape and the way of distilling: it can be smooth or sharp. Some are aged in barrels, which darkens the drink. It is a thrifty product that uses what is left of winemaking. A strong drink should be taken in moderation and in small portions, usually after a meal.