Frequently asked questions

What is rakija?

Rakija, pronounced ra-ki-ya, is a spirit made by distilling fermented fruit. It is enjoyed across the Balkans, with different styles made from grapes, plums, pears and other fruit.

DNA Distillery makes Australian rakija in Classic, Gold, Pear and Plum expressions.

What does rakija taste like?

It depends on the fruit and the expression. Our Classic is delicate, light and fresh; Gold is richer, smoother and gently sweet; Pear is crisp and fruity; and Plum is deeper, rounded and bold.

Explore each bottle’s tasting notes to find your favourite.

How do I drink rakija?

Enjoy rakija neat, over ice or in a cocktail. Start with the expression’s flavour notes and choose a serve you enjoy.

Our cocktail recipes show the ingredients and method for each drink.

How many standard drinks are in a bottle?

A 700 mL bottle of DNA rakija at 40% ABV contains approximately 22.1 Australian standard drinks. That is the amount in the whole bottle.

The number of serves depends on how much you pour; a serve is not necessarily one standard drink.

What is the story behind DNA rakija?

Dedo taught us a thing or two. DNA Distillery brings a family recipe passed through five generations to Australian-made rakija.

Meet the family behind DNA.

How strong is DNA rakija?

DNA’s Classic, Gold, Pear and Plum 700 mL bottles are 40% alcohol by volume.

Other producers and homemade rakija can have different strengths, so check the label rather than assuming every rakija is the same.

Does DNA Distillery use organically grown fruit?

Yes. The Australian Shiraz grapes, pears and plums used to make our Classic, Gold, Pear and Plum rakija are organically grown.

How should I store rakija?

Keep the bottle upright with the closure secure, in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing it above the stove.

How much does shipping cost?

We deliver within Australia. Our shipping options are:

  • Standard shipping: A$9.99
  • Free standard shipping on orders over A$149 after discounts, before any applicable taxes
  • Express shipping: A$14.99

Exactly A$149 does not qualify for free standard shipping. Available services and the final shipping charge are shown at checkout.

See our shipping information for dispatch and delivery details.

When will my order arrive?

Orders are usually dispatched within one business day from Bass Hill Post Office, NSW 2197.

Delivery time depends on your destination and the service you choose. Transit estimates start after dispatch; express shipping does not mean immediate delivery.

For an estimate, use the Australia Post delivery calculator with Bass Hill NSW 2197 as the sending postcode and your own delivery postcode.

Preorders and scheduled deliveries follow the timing shown on the product page. See our shipping information for details.

Does DNA Distillery offer international shipping?

We do not currently offer international shipping.

At the moment, DNA Distillery ships within Australia only.

How can I track my order?

Once your order has been dispatched, tracking details will be sent if tracking is available for your shipment.

If you have not received tracking details, or your order appears delayed, email hello@dnadistillery.com with your order number so we can help.

Can I place a corporate gifting or wholesale order?

Absolutely. For gifts for your team, clients or an event, email hello@dnadistillery.com.

For wholesale enquiries, email accounts@dnadistillery.com or use our wholesale enquiry form.

What’s the difference between Classic, Gold, Pear and Plum rakija?

Each rakija has its own personality.

  • Classic Rakija is delicate, light and fresh
  • Gold Rakija is richer, smoother and sweeter
  • Pear Rakija is crisp, fruity and bright
  • Plum Rakija is deeper, rounder and bolder

If you are new to rakija, Classic is a great place to start. If you want something richer and more decadent, Gold is a favourite.

Is DNA Distillery a good gift?

Absolutely.

DNA Distillery makes a great gift for birthdays, celebrations, thank-yous, dinner hosts, and anyone who appreciates something a little different.

If you want to make it extra special, you can also add one of our gift options where available.

Can I include a gift note?

Yes, you can include a gift note with your order.

If you are sending a gift, add your note at checkout where available and we will do our best to make sure it is included with the order.

What if I entered the wrong shipping address?

If you notice an error in your shipping address after placing your order, contact us as soon as possible at hello@dnadistillery.com.

If your order has not yet been dispatched, we will do our best to update the details in time.

Is rakija the same as gin or ouzo?

No. Rakija is a fruit spirit. Gin is defined by its juniper character, while ouzo is an anise-flavoured spirit.

They can all be used in mixed drinks, but their ingredients, production and flavours differ.

Do you offer express shipping?

Yes. Express shipping within Australia is A$14.99 where available at checkout. Orders are usually dispatched within one business day.

Delivery time depends on your destination. See our shipping information for rates and delivery estimates.

Who do I contact if there’s a problem with my order?

If there is any issue with your order, please contact us at hello@dnadistillery.com.

The best way to help us sort things quickly is to include:

  • your order number
  • a short explanation of the issue
  • photos, if relevant

We will do our best to help as quickly as possible.

Do I have to be 18 to buy from DNA Distillery?

Yep, you do. Dedo says so, and so does the law.

What is your refund and exchange policy?

We don’t offer refunds or exchanges for change of mind. If your order arrives damaged, faulty or incorrect, email hello@dnadistillery.com with your order number and details so we can help.

Your rights under Australian Consumer Law are not affected. See our refund policy for further information.

Where can I buy DNA rakija?

You can buy DNA rakija directly from our online store.

How can I stay up to date on new products and releases?

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