Science in the Service of Hedonism: The Story of a Signature Gin
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In the world of fine spirits, where taste is shaped by patience, knowledge, and an eye for detail, few manage to merge science and creativity into a truly distinctive product. That is exactly what Maja Milijaš has achieved - a PhD in Food Technology, assistant professor at the Faculty of Technology, University of Banja Luka, and founder of The Gin brand.
Why gin?
Her story doesn’t begin in a distillery, but in a laboratory. As a food technologist, Maja dedicated her undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral studies to alcoholic beverages. After becoming one of the youngest PhDs in Republika Srpska, she continued her academic career, where she now teaches students about the production of spirits, beer, and wine.
At one point, however, theory was no longer enough.
“I wanted knowledge to move beyond theory and take on a tangible form,” Maja told HEDONIST magazine.
That form became a distillery in Srbac, her hometown, established at the end of 2024. By February 2025, the first bottle had already reached the market. The choice of gin was no coincidence. Unlike many other categories, gin allows creative freedom - the ability to tell a personal story through botanicals, their relationships, and the way they are processed.
Craft approach and a difference in taste
This is where the difference begins.
Maja’s gin is a craft product made in small batches, with every step carefully controlled. Botanicals are not selected randomly - each has a defined role within the composition. Balance is not adjusted at the end; it is built from the very beginning.
“Quality is built. It doesn’t happen overnight.”
The result is a spirit that is not only technically precise, but also distinctive in character - complex enough to linger on the palate, yet stable enough to retain its identity in cocktails.
Recognition from Frankfurt
That quality has already crossed borders, confirmed by recognition in Frankfurt. For Maja, it is more than an award - it is proof that a product from a small distillery can stand alongside global brands.
“It’s both encouragement and a responsibility not to compromise,” she says.
Although she leads production, the distillery itself is a family story. Support from her closest circle is present in every segment - from hands-on work to daily decisions. Today, three types of gin are produced in Srbac: a classic London dry, “Jedinstvena” with its recognizable pink shimmer, and “Iskra,” an elegant variation enriched with golden details.
More than a business
Behind it all lies something more than business. The idea grew out of curiosity and research, almost like a hobby, but quickly evolved into a serious venture. The business came later - as a natural continuation of quality.
The product must have value on its own, independent of marketing,” Maja emphasizes.
Alongside her professional roles, she is also a mother of two, which makes her journey even more remarkable. Balancing family, science, and entrepreneurship requires discipline, but also a clear vision.
A message to young people
Her advice to those considering starting their own business is simple: learn, be patient, and don’t look for shortcuts.
“Quality is built. It doesn’t happen overnight.”
There is nothing accidental in her story - only dedication, knowledge, and the courage to step beyond the comfort zone. The result? A signature gin that leaves a lasting impression.
- Written by Anđelka Marković / HEDONIST
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