Cota Vina

Heritage & Origins

Founded in 1911 by their great-grandfather Marko Cota, who returned from America with a passion for viticulture, Cota Vina has deep roots in the village of Oklaj, near the Dalmatian coast and the Krka National Park.
Marko built the original underground cellar, 3.5 meters below ground, along with a traditional stone house, laying the foundation for a winemaking legacy that spans four generations.

Winemaker & Philosophy

Today, the estate is led by Petar Cota, the fourth-generation winemaker, who continues his family’s legacy with a focus on natural and traditional winemaking.
Petar’s philosophy is centered on minimal intervention: no chemical additives in the vineyard or cellar, spontaneous fermentations, and wines crafted to express place and heritage. His goal is to produce wines that are fresh, vibrant, and joyful, reflecting the authenticity of Dalmatia’s terroir.

Vineyards & Terroir

Cota Vina cultivates approximately 6 hectares of vineyards around Promina mountain, benefiting from a unique microclimate influenced by the Adriatic Sea and nearby Krka National Park.
The vineyards are planted with a mix of indigenous varieties, such as Debit, Maraština, Plavina, and Lasina, as well as international grapes like Merlot, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc.

Winemaking Techniques

Petar works with a hands-off approach in the cellar, allowing the character of the grapes to shine:

  • No chemical treatments in the vineyard.

  • Spontaneous fermentations with indigenous yeasts.

  • Minimal or no sulfites added at bottling.

  • Aging primarily in stainless steel to preserve freshness, with some wines aged in neutral vessels for complexity.

For their sparkling wine Kota 325, made from Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, the style leans toward extra-brut, showcasing fine bubbles, herbal freshness, and a lively, crisp finish.

Signature Wines

Lapacha (2022)

  • Grape: 100% Merlot (organically farmed).

  • Style: Direct-press rosé with no sulfites added.

  • Aging: Stainless steel to preserve vibrant fruit aromas.

  • Tasting Notes: Juicy and round with notes of ripe strawberries and peaches, fresh and easy to drink.

  • Alcohol: ~13%.

  • Pairing: Ideal with appetizers, cured meats, and grilled dishes.

Baba Manda (2022)

  • Grape: 50% Debit, 50% Maraština (both indigenous Croatian varieties).

  • Style: Natural white wine with one week of skin contact.

  • Fermentation: Spontaneous co-fermentation in stainless steel.

  • Tasting Notes: Fresh, aromatic, and slightly textural with notes of citrus and Mediterranean herbs.

  • Alcohol: ~12%.

  • Pairing: Perfect with sardines, grilled fish, or as a refreshing aperitif.

Pero j’Dero

  • Grape: Blend of Merlot, Plavina, and Lasina.

  • Style: Light-bodied, vibrant red with soft tannins and bright fruit character.

  • Pairing: Charcuterie, pasta, or roasted vegetables.

Export & Recognition

Cota Vina has gained international recognition, with wines exported to the U.S., Canada, Singapore, Denmark, and the Netherlands, as well as being featured in top restaurants and wine bars across Croatia.

Summary

Cota Vina is a family-run estate where heritage meets innovation. Petar Cota brings a fresh, natural approach to winemaking while honoring his family’s century-old legacy.
The result is a portfolio of expressive wines—from lively pét-nats to delicate rosés and characterful whites—that capture the spirit of Dalmatia and showcase the beauty of Croatia’s indigenous grape varieties.