IN THE HEART OF PRAGUE
Behind the museum stands the brand RUDOLF JELÍNEK, a name that has become synonymous with high-quality fruit spirits. Traditional distilling in the Vizovice region dates back to 1585, and the company itself was founded in 1894. Today, its products are known not only throughout the Czech Republic but also around the world. It is no surprise, then, that the company chose to open a “slivovitz embassy” right in the heart of the capital. The museum is housed in a sensitively restored 17th-century building with a rich history of its own. Known as U Bílé botky (“At the White Shoe”) or U Bílé číše (“At the White Goblet”), it was once part of the settlement called Rybáře. The most notable mark was left here by actress Slávka Budínová, who owned and renovated the building. However, after the devastating floods of 2002, the property fell into disrepair — until it was revived by the Vizovice-based distillery. Today, the house and its courtyard shine once again, and fittingly, a plum tree — the symbol of slivovitz — grows in the middle of the yard.
THE STORY OF SLIVOVITZ
The interactive exhibition at the Slivovitz Museum takes you on a journey not only through the history of slivovitz, but also its production, cultural significance, and sensory experience. The exhibition is divided into four thematic sections. The first introduces you to the origins of distilling in Vizovice, the lives of local people, and the powerful story of the Jelínek family. At the heart of this section is a compelling audiovisual projection that guides you through time — from 1585 to the present day. You’ll meet Rudolf Jelínek and his wife Irena and learn about the challenges the company has faced throughout its long history.
The second section transports you to the Wallachian countryside — the orchards where it all begins. A twelve-meter panoramic projection lets you fully absorb the atmosphere of Vizovice: the spring breeze, the scent of blossoms, and the heat of summer.
The third space is virtual and completely unique. For five minutes, you become a plum, experiencing the entire production process: from shaking in the orchard to fermentation, aging in oak barrels, and finally being bottled as slivovitz.
The final stop takes you inside the production itself — fermentation, distillation, bottling. You’ll also learn about kosher production and can test your knowledge with interactive quizzes. At the end, you can even design your own label and have it placed on a bottle of your choice from the museum shop.
TASTING AND ATMOSPHERE
A visit wouldn’t be complete without a tasting — which is included in the tour. Guests can choose from several options, ranging from the most traditional — a trio of fruit spirits accompanied by classic Wallachian appetizers — to cocktail tastings or a premium selection made up of kosher distillates. For drivers or younger visitors, a non-alcoholic option is available in the form of plum lemonade.
At the heart of the museum is a stylish tasting bar where you can enjoy both classic and lesser-known fruit brandies, original cocktails, and Wallachian “tapas” — such as cured pork fat, director’s crackling, or the mysterious “špetrnka.” And if you don’t know what that is, that’s just one more reason to come and find out.
The museum also features a multi-purpose lounge with a capacity of up to 60 people and full technical equipment for private events, corporate meetings, or parties, as well as a smaller, cozy room called “Kampa,” perfect for more intimate gatherings.
FOR MEMORIES AND FOR PLEASURE
In the museum shop, you can choose from a wide selection of R. JELÍNEK products — from slivovitz and GOLDCOCK whisky to traditional Slovácko juniper brandy (borovička), as well as plum jam, teas, and dried plums. You’ll also find stylish and humorous gifts, such as fruit-themed socks.
The Slivovitz Museum is open daily. Come and discover the world of slivovitz in a whole new way.
Plum it up!
www.muzeumslivovice.cz
