The Rota Wine Story
Rota’s birth dates back to 2005 on the Dalmatian peninsula of Peljesac. The southern steep side of Rota mountain, above Kuna, was the birthplace of the Rota vineyard. Among the Mediterranean pine and karst, in some areas more than 70% steep, on the slopes up to 480 meters (1600 ft) above the sea level, Plavac Mali vines were planted across 23.5 hectares (58 acres). The steep slopes were more than a challenge when the initial planting of the vines started. With hard work and excellent engineering, thousands of plants came to life. That very steepness has made Rota one of the best areas to grow grapes in all of Dalmatia. The air found there is truly special. Large temperature differences, at times as much as 20°C (68°F), between night and day create the optimal growing environment for Plavac Mali.
Harvest occurs when 10-15% of grapes are naturally dried out. The carefully regulated temperature during fermentation in combination with malolactic fermentation technology (MLF) plus the addition of barrique barrel aging, allow the oak to integrate finesse rather than an overwhelming flavor into the wine. This time spent in barrels rounds out its complexity while maintaining its distinct, signature taste. Such a modern vinification approach allows Rota to showcase all the best qualities of the Plavac Mali grape. Click here to read more about the Resveratrol content.
Wine bouquet contains mostly currant, blackberry and blueberry, along with a scent of dried plums and plum jam. Combined with a light scent of barrique, it is possible to taste the light notes of sweet smelling spices. The wine has a very firm, physical taste, but at the same time, elegant and soft. The finish is long and soft with firm tannins giving the Plavac Mali characteristics. We recommend decanting Rota one hour prior to enjoyment.
The complexity and power of this wine make it very suitable for pairing with various dishes such as fish (particularly Mediterranean style), a variety of red meat such as beef and lamb, or poultry like quail and duck. Rota can also be a very nice experience when paired with dark chocolate dessert. A glass of Rota on its own can also be a pure pleasure. A "little blue" for a "big red"!
Rota was recently awarded a Gold Medal at Sabatina 2013, Hvar, Croatia - International winemaker and winegrower summit.
Read the press release here
Rota, the son of Zin, 2011 Vintage, is now available for you to enjoy!
Bonaparte Wine Tech Sheet 2013