Contact Information

Contact Person: Hrvoje Bušić
Position: Co-Owner
Email: hrvoje@duhuboci.com
Phone: +385915139466
Website: https://duhuboci.com
LinkedIn: Not specified

Duh u boci d.o.o. (eng. The Spirit in the Bottle)

Company Information

Company Type LLC
VAT Number 56769884745
Region City of Zagreb
County City of Zagreb
Municipality/City Zagreb
Address Kovinska 30
Registration Date 28 studenoga, 2017
Number of Employees 6-10

Business Profile

NACE Code 11.01 - Distilling, rectifying and blending of spirits
Sector/Industry Agriculture & Food
Products/Services Finished Goods
Core Products/Services Duh u boci d.o.o. is a Croatian craft distillery dedicated to the production of premium small-batch spirits under the brands Old Pilot’s and Nebo. Founded by aviation professionals with a passion for precision and authenticity, the distillery combines technical expertise, innovative thinking, and deep respect for traditional distillation methods. Our core portfolio consists of: Old Pilot’s Gin Collection – A range of internationally awarded gins crafted using carefully selected botanicals and a meticulous distillation process. The collection includes: • London Dry Gin • Barrel Aged Gin • Strawberry Gin Each expression is distilled in small batches with a strong focus on balance, purity, and distinctive character. Old Pilot’s gins are recognized for their refined botanical structure and elegant complexity. Nebo Croatian Whisky – A premium whisky line inspired by exploration and the spirit of pushing boundaries. The range includes: • Four Grain Whisky • Single Malt Whisky • Peated Single Malt Whisky • Limited and collaborative editions Nebo represents a modern interpretation of European whisky craftsmanship, combining carefully selected grains, long maturation periods, and thoughtfully chosen cask programs to create layered, expressive spirits. In addition to product development and production, Duh u boci d.o.o. manages full in-house brand development, product design, packaging innovation, and international market expansion. The company operates under strict quality control standards and complies with EU production regulations, ensuring consistency and excellence across all markets. Our mission is to create spirits with identity — products that merge craftsmanship, storytelling, and technical precision into a distinctive sensory experience.
Key Technologies Duh u boci d.o.o. integrates advanced distillation technology with traditional craftsmanship to ensure precision, consistency, and product excellence across its Old Pilot’s and Nebo portfolios. Precision Stainless Steel Distillation Systems All spirits are produced in high-grade stainless steel stills that allow for precise temperature control, controlled reflux management, and accurate separation of heads, hearts, and tails. This enables exceptional purity and consistency in both gin and whisky production. Botanical Vapor Infusion & Maceration Techniques For Old Pilot’s Gin, a combination of controlled maceration and vapor infusion techniques is used to extract delicate aromatic compounds while preserving botanical integrity and balance. Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration All water used in production undergoes multi-stage mechanical filtration, including reverse osmosis, ensuring mineral consistency and purity before blending and dilution. Advanced Filtration Systems Spirits are refined using activated carbon filtration systems enhanced with silver and platinum elements, achieving clarity while maintaining aromatic complexity. Controlled Maturation & Cask Management For Nebo Whisky, carefully selected oak casks (including various toast and char levels) are used within monitored maturation environments. Temperature and humidity conditions are tracked to ensure stable aging and optimal flavor development. Quality Control & Analytical Monitoring Alcohol strength, density, and organoleptic parameters are monitored throughout production using calibrated laboratory instruments. Each batch undergoes sensory evaluation to maintain brand consistency. Small-Batch Production Model Limited batch sizes allow for tight process control, traceability, and flexibility in product development, including experimental cask finishes and limited editions. By combining engineering precision with artisanal oversight, Duh u boci d.o.o. ensures that every bottle reflects technical excellence, regulatory compliance, and distinctive character.
Main Machinery Stainless Steel distillation still, liquid-solid separator, reverse osmosis filtration system, fermentation equipment, active carbon filtration system, various pumps, oak barrels, stainless steel tanks.
Unique Capabilities Duh u boci d.o.o. specializes in the development and production of high-end, small-batch spirits that combine technical precision, strong brand identity, and distinctive storytelling. The company’s unique capabilities lie at the intersection of engineering expertise, aviation-inspired philosophy, and artisanal distillation. Aviation-Driven Precision Culture Founded by professional pilots, the company operates with a mindset rooted in discipline, accuracy, and continuous performance optimization. This operational philosophy directly influences production standards, quality control, and product consistency. Independent Product Development & Brand Creation Unlike many contract-based producers, Duh u boci independently develops recipes, oversees full production, and manages in-house brand positioning, packaging design, and market strategy. This allows for full control from raw material selection to final consumer experience. Advanced Cask Innovation & European Whisky Interpretation Through the Nebo whisky line, the company is pioneering a modern European approach to whisky production, combining diverse grain bills, experimental maturation programs, and carefully curated cask finishes to create distinctive flavor profiles tailored to contemporary markets. High-Impact Design & Limited Editions The distillery has a strong capability in developing collectible, limited-edition releases, including artistic collaborations and aviation-inspired packaging concepts. This positions the brands in the premium and ultra-premium segments internationally. Export-Oriented Growth Strategy With established presence and expansion initiatives in multiple international markets, including the UK and other EU countries, the company is structured to operate under international regulatory frameworks and quality standards. Agility & Innovation in Small-Batch Production Operating as a craft distillery enables rapid product development cycles, experimental releases, and customized collaborations without compromising quality or authenticity. Through the combination of engineering discipline, creative independence, and premium positioning, Duh u boci d.o.o. delivers spirits that are technically refined, emotionally engaging, and globally competitive.
Target Customers Duh u boci d.o.o., through its premium brands Old Pilot’s and Nebo, targets discerning consumers and professional partners who value authenticity, craftsmanship, and distinctive brand identity. Premium & Super-Premium Spirit Consumers Affluent individuals aged 30–60 who actively seek high-quality, small-batch spirits with strong character and storytelling. These customers appreciate technical precision, limited editions, and refined flavor profiles, and are willing to pay a premium for authenticity and originality. Craft Spirit Enthusiasts & Collectors Consumers who follow global craft distillery trends, explore new whisky and gin categories, and collect limited releases. This segment is particularly relevant for Nebo’s experimental cask programs and special editions, as well as Old Pilot’s Barrel Aged and art-inspired releases. On-Trade Premium Venues (HoReCa) High-end cocktail bars, boutique hotels, premium restaurants, and specialty whisky/gin bars that curate distinctive, story-driven brands for their clientele. These partners value consistent quality, unique positioning, and strong visual identity. Specialty Retail & Concept Stores Independent liquor stores, gourmet shops, airport retail, and curated concept stores that focus on premium and niche products with international award recognition and compelling brand narratives. International Distributors & Importers Strategic partners in key export markets (EU, UK and beyond) seeking differentiated European craft brands with strong growth potential and scalable production capacity. Corporate & Luxury Gifting Segment Companies and private clients seeking premium, design-forward spirits for corporate gifts, VIP events, and special occasions, particularly limited-edition or presentation-focused packaging formats. By targeting consumers and partners who prioritize quality, design, and authenticity over mass production, Duh u boci d.o.o. positions its portfolio firmly within the premium and super-premium global spirits segment.
Export Experience Both EU & Global
Export Markets AU, CA, HR, DE, SG, SI, CH, GB, US
Export Percentage 15%
Capacity Utilization 50%
Additional Capacity 50
Peak Months February, March
MOQ 1 bottle
Delivery Times Not specified
Regional Focus EU
Languages Croatian: Native, English: Advanced, German: None, Italian: None, French: None, Spanish: None

Quality, Standards & Compliance

Quality Certificates Organic Certification (EU Organic, others), Other
Sustainability Practices Recycling & waste reduction, Sustainable packaging

Technology & Innovation

Key Technologies Not specified
R&D Activities Collaboration with universities/institutes
R&D Investment <1% of revenue

Supply Chain & Operations

Supplier Locations Primarily local (Croatian), Regional (Balkans/Central Europe), EU-wide
Risk Management Dual sourcing strategy
Outsourcing Some non-core processes
Quality Control Incoming material inspection, Final product/service inspection, Customer feedback systems

References & Partnerships

Domestic Clients Badel 1862
International Clients Delicije GmbH, Mamashop Inc, 5starespirit, Domovina Wines
Key Partnerships Badel 1862
Client Testimonials Yes, upon request
Memberships No
Awards International Wine and Spirits Competition, Trophy 2019, World's Best London Dry Gin, World's Best Packaging for Vodka 2023, San Francisco World Spirits Competition for London Dry Gin and Vodka, World Whiskies Awards, Gold for Nebo 4 Grain Whiskey, World Gin Awards, Best Croatian London Dry Gin, Gold, Best Croatian Vodka, Gold
Partnership Openness Distribution agreement, R&D collaboration, Private label manufacturing
Preferred Size No preference

Financial Profile

Turnover €1,000,000 – €2,500,000
Revenue Stability Some seasonal variation
Annual Growth High growth (15-30%)
Payment Terms Net 30 days
Credit Rating Excellent (AAA-AA)

Market Position & Growth

Market Position Small but growing
Competitive Advantages Price competitiveness, High quality/premium products, Speed/quick delivery, Customization capabilities, Technical expertise, Customer service, Sustainability practices, Long-term relationships
Expansion Markets EU, Asia-Pacific
Strategic Goals Export growth, Market expansion, Capacity increase, Cost reduction
Investment Needs Equipment modernization, Facility expansion, Market development

Communication & Marketing

Communication Channels Email, Phone calls, Video conferences, In-person meetings, WhatsApp/messaging apps
Marketing Materials Product/service catalogue, Sample products
Social Media LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram

Extra Features

Company Brochure Not specified
Product Catalogue Not specified
Certifications Not specified
Product Images
Company Video Not specified
Technical Specifications Not specified
Additional Information Not specified