Vitovska: The Revival of a Karst Jewel
Vitovska is an ancient variety with a modern revival story. Indigenous to the Istrian-Friulian Karst, it reemerged in the 1980s after a long period of obscurity. Its neglect mirrors that of many Mediterranean autochthonous varieties, such as Verdicchio and Timorasso—grapes of remarkable quality that, for a time, were only appreciated locally.
Branko and Vasja Čotar cultivate their Vitovska vines in Gorjansko, Slovenia, a few kilometers from the Italian border and the sea. The terrain is unique: terra rossa—rust-red soil rich in iron and limestone. With 8400 vines spread across 1.2 hectares, each vine yields just 600 grams of grapes, resulting in highly concentrated and powerful fruit. Čotar ferments the grapes on their skins for seven days in open wooden vats, followed by 24 months of aging in 2000-liter oak barrels.
Style
The wine’s color mirrors the terra rossa. Vibrant acidity meets finely woven tannins. Čotar’s Vitovska is intense, structured, and energetic. Aromas of orange, red berries, earth, and herbs define its expressive profile. It is taut yet warm in its finish, without excess alcohol.
Technical Data
- Grape variety: Vitovska
- Vineyard: Terra rossa, 100 meters above sea level, near the sea; 7000 vines per hectare; 600g of grapes per vine
- Harvest: By hand
- Fermentation: Spontaneous | wild yeasts, 7-day skin maceration in 2000-liter open wooden vats
- Aging: 24 months in 1500-liter oak barrels
- Filtration: None
- SO₂: Unsulfured
- Alcohol: 11.5% vol
- Closure: Natural cork
- Serving temperature: 10–12°C
- Optimal drinking window: From now until 2030
- Bottle size: 0.75 l
- Content and price per liter: €41.12/l
All Vinonudo-listed winemakers practice sustainable viticulture, using compost, organic fertilizers, and natural preparations, and avoid herbicides, pesticides, and synthetic fertilizers.
