The Croatian Slivovitz sold at most liquor stores (at least on the West
Coast) is reasonable but it is pretty sharp\aggressive and is more of
an acquired taste. It tastes somewhere between diesel fuel and
Listerine with hints of fruit. I grew up with it so I like it but most
friends I have offered it to are no longer friends and keep referring
to my attempt to poison them. The few that were brave enough to drink
it found out later why there are no breakfast meetings organized on the
Balkans.

Personally, I prefer the Clear Creek brandies produced in Oregon - they
are very good, with nice gentle fruit aroma. My personal favourite is
the pear brandy.

The Balkans produce many types of brandy - anything from grapes to
pears, plums, apricots, etc. All can be real good or real bad (just
like any alcohol). Most have a fairly sharp taste. Some are aged in oak
barrels (mostly the grape brandy) and have the darker color. It's an
acquired taste.