“Valët e Detit”” Restaurant (Cornelian cherry raki)”

The cornelian cherry is a long, small, shrub-like tree that can grow to 15-25 meters if it is left unchecked. These trees have been known to live for over 100 years. The cornelian cherry begins to bloom in early spring, providing food for bees. The fruits ripen in August-September. The cornelian cherry fruits are eaten fresh or dried. The fruits are traditionally used to make syrups, drinks, juices, marmalades, liqueurs, but more specifically rakia. The cornelian cherry raki is soft and it reaches a maximum of 18 °. It is traditionally produced by families in the Albanian Alps and  used for personal consumption, or for serving guets at home. The cornelian cherry fruits have a slightly bitter taste but are rich in many nutrients.