Traditional Slovenian Juniper Brandy 'Brinjevec' Lands In Japan For The First Time

Traditional Slovenian Juniper Brandy 'Brinjevec' Arrives in Japan!

In an exciting development for spirits enthusiasts, Slovenia's renowned juniper brandy, Brinjevec, will make its debut in Japan on July 5, 2026. This specialty release comes from And Spirits Co., based in Tokyo’s Meguro Ward, and will honor the 13-year anniversary of the beloved Bar BenFiddich with a limited-edition logo bottle.

Bar BenFiddich is not just any bar; it has garnered international acclaim under the stewardship of owner-bartender Hiroyasu Kawaguchi, who discovered Brinjevec during his journeys in Slovenia. His determination to introduce this remarkable spirit to Japan stems from its unique characteristics and his personal connection to its cultural heritage.

What Makes Brinjevec Unique?

Unlike typical gin, which combines neutral spirits with juniper and other botanicals for flavoring, Brinjevec undergoes a distinctive production process that involves fermenting and distilling juniper berries directly. This traditional Slovenian spirit showcases the flavor of juniper itself, offering drinkers a taste of authenticity and heritage.

The Brinjevec produced by the BRIN Distillery stands out for its integrity: only fermented juniper berries and water are used, with no additional flavors or sugars. This method highlights the natural essence of the juniper, ensuring a truly artisanal spirit.

Eric Salkic, the founder and master distiller at BRIN, combines knowledge handed down from his family with his passion for producing quality distillates. His commitment to reviving Brinjevec aims to share this spirit with younger generations, preserving its historical significance while making it accessible to new audiences.

The Production Process

The creation of Brinjevec requires meticulous care. The carefully selected juniper berries are gently crushed and soaked in water, followed by a natural fermentation process that lasts about 20 to 30 days. The resulting mash is then distilled in copper pot stills, capturing the rich essence of the juniper berries.

In the first distillation, crucial essential oils from the juniper are carefully separated, then the spirit is slowly re-distilled. This lengthy process helps to refine the flavor profile, resulting in a clean and elegant finish that embodies the essence of the fresh juniper.

While Brinjevec has historical roots as a digestif, its rarity in recent years has made it a hidden gem in the world of spirits. With Eric's vision and dedication, BRIN aims to reintroduce this unique beverage, emphasizing its significance within Slovenian tradition.

Limited-Edition Bottle for Bar BenFiddich

The launch of Brinjevec in Japan coincides with Bar BenFiddich's 13th anniversary celebration. To commemorate this milestone, 180 limited-edition logo bottles will be available for purchase.

Bar BenFiddich, located in Nishi-Shinjuku, Tokyo, has become an influential establishment known for its innovative cocktail creations and profound knowledge of spirits, led by Hiroyasu Kawaguchi. He is recognized for skillfully incorporating cultural narratives and local ingredients into his cocktails, creating unique tasting experiences.

This limited-edition Brinjevec reflects his commitment to sharing extraordinary spirits and will be an exclusive offering for those who appreciate quality distillation.

Tasting Notes and Suggested Pairings

Brinjevec has a sharp, fresh aroma of juniper complemented by subtle sweetness, and its flavor is robust yet dry. The clean elegance of its aftertaste highlights the strength of the juniper.

For the best experience, Kawaguchi suggests enhancing your gin and tonic with a teaspoon of Brinjevec. This simple addition creates a stunning marble effect in the glass and brings out the complexities of the juniper flavor. It's also a perfect accent over vanilla ice cream or in classic cocktails like the Grasshopper and Martini.

Additionally, in Slovenia, Brinjevec is traditionally enjoyed as a digestif, sipped straight from a small glass for a leisurely tasting experience.

Where to Purchase

Brinjevec will be exclusively sold online starting July 5, 2026, and can also be tasted at various locations, including Bar BenFiddich, Bar B&F, Bar Amber, and &SPIRITS in Tokyo. This is not just a drink; it is a chance to indulge in a piece of Slovenian heritage. If you appreciate high-quality spirits or are looking for new tasting experiences, Brinjevec promises to offer something truly special to your palate.