In the heart of Dubrovnik, a new distillery is redefining what it means to craft gin. Habitat Distillery, a passion project born from the minds of five friends during the pandemic, is turning local ingredients into something truly extraordinary. This isn’t just a gin—it’s a reflection of the land, the people, and the culture of Dubrovnik. With each bottle, Habitat offers a taste of the region’s rich heritage, blending tradition and innovation in a way that feels both timeless and fresh.

The Essence of "Habitat"

The name "Habitat" is more than just a label; it’s a philosophy. For the five friends behind the distillery—Vlaho Carević, Nino Kecerin, Edi Glavić, and sisters Iva and Nikolina Đivanović—Habitat is about reconnecting with nature and celebrating community. During the pandemic, a time when many felt isolated, these friends came together to create something that would bring people closer to the essence of their homeland.

“Habitat represents the meeting point of nature and community,” they explain. “It’s where forgotten natural treasures and human values come together to create something truly special.” Their mission goes beyond just making gin—they’re committed to educating others, supporting small local producers, and fostering collaborations with artists and artisans. Habitat is a collective effort to preserve and promote the rich resources of the Dubrovnik area while building a platform for creativity and innovation.

Crafting a Gin That’s Uniquely Dubrovnik

When it came to crafting their gin, the team at Habitat knew they wanted to capture the true essence of Dubrovnik. They carefully selected local plants and spices, each with a story to tell: immortelle from Konavle, rosemary from Srđ and the Omble springs, and citrus fruits from Lastovo, Korčula, the Elaphites, Župa, and Konavle all play starring roles in this artisanal gin. Add to that the aromatic notes of sage and lavender, and you’ve got a drink that’s as complex as it is refreshing.

Every ingredient is chosen with care, ensuring that the flavors are authentic and the quality is top-notch. Most of the botanicals are hand-prepared, a process that ensures they are fresh, natural, and packed with flavor. This hands-on approach not only guarantees a superior product but also highlights the distillery’s dedication to keeping local traditions alive.

A Symphony of Flavors

The first sip of Habitat gin is an experience in itself. You’re greeted by the warm, earthy aroma of sage, followed by the fresh, herbal kick of rosemary. Finally, a burst of citrus dances on the palate, adding a playful zest that’s impossible to resist. This layered flavor profile reflects the team’s passion for creating a gin that’s not just unique but also a true reflection of the Dubrovnik spirit.

More Than Just a Drink: A Tribute to Dubrovnik

Habitat gin is much more than just a delicious drink—it’s a love letter to Dubrovnik. “We wanted every aspect of the gin, from the taste to the bottle design, to embody the spirit of our city,” the founders share. To bring this vision to life, they collaborated with local artists who share their passion for Dubrovnik.

The bottle itself is a work of art, designed by Morana Depoli. Handcrafted on a potter’s wheel, the bottle emphasizes the importance of craftsmanship and attention to detail. The label features the vibrant work of Josip Pino Trostmann, a renowned Dubrovnik painter known for capturing the beauty and colors of the region. Through these artistic elements, Habitat gin becomes a piece of Dubrovnik’s soul—a reflection of its history, art, and the sense of community that defines the city.

Looking to the Future: New Products and Global Ambitions

While gin is their first creation, Habitat Distillery has big plans for the future. New products are already in the works, each of which will also be crafted in collaboration with local artists and artisans. The goal is to showcase Dubrovnik’s ability to produce world-class products that are deeply rooted in the region’s traditions and made with the skill and dedication of local talent.

Habitat isn’t just focused on products, though. They’re also offering unique experiences, from gin-making workshops to distillery tours and cocktail classes led by Dubrovnik’s top mixologists. With plans to expand these offerings, Habitat is proving that it’s more than just a distillery—it’s a platform for education, creativity, and the promotion of local culture. As they look to expand both locally and internationally, Habitat Distillery is set to bring the spirit of Dubrovnik to the world, one bottle at a time.

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