Kotari – A New Energy from Zadar’s Hinterland
Ravni Kotari Conquer Zagreb: We Tasted Top Wines and Olive Oils at diWine Club
Text and photos by Irena Lučić, diWine Croatia
Ravni Kotari is the European region with the highest percentage of organic agricultural land per capita, a fact few people know. But for the Kotari brand, sustainability and organic practices are the foundation of their business model. We witnessed this firsthand at a recent Mingle&Brunch event at diWine Club Zagreb, where Kotari presented their new wines and olive oil alongside the new Croatian bread brand GlamBread by Barélli.
Three Young Wines – Three Perspectives on the Kotari Terroir
During the early afternoon gathering, which brought together representatives of eno-gastro media and wine professionals, three wines from Kotari’s new vintage were introduced.
The tasting started with Maraština, an indigenous and increasingly important Dalmatian variety. This wine communicates the essence of the Kotari brand – good energy!
"Pošip is often cited as the most important white Dalmatian grape, but I see no reason why that couldn’t be Maraština. This was an exceptional wine, technically precise, carrying the stylistic signature of the winemaker and the imprint of the terroir. “Light, young, and fresh – a perfect choice for the upcoming summer days,” said Franjo Francem, President of the Croatian Sommelier Club.
Next came Blanc de Noir, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. Made using the more technically demanding method of producing white wine from red grapes, it offered a fuller body and richer aromas. This wine is suitable for a wide range of food pairings and proudly embraces its uniqueness.
Completing the trilogy was a rosé, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Plavina. It was a wine of contemporary style, bursting with aromas of strawberries and berries, yet with enough character to pair boldly with lighter meat dishes.
“At our recent Croatian rosé wine workshop here at diWine Club, this wine stood out among ten rosé labels. That says it all,” shared Irena Lučić, owner of diWine Club and host of the popular “Little Wine School.”
The distinctive style of Kotari wines is thanks to renowned Croatian oenologist Robert Brkić. And, the labels bear the signature of multi-award-winning designer Vanja Cuculić. Each of the three wines embodies the character of the terroir and simply invite another sip.
Liquid Gold and Bread 2.0
We mustn’t forget Kotari olive oil – marketed in two lines. Kotari Dalmatinsko is a mild blend of Dalmatian varieties, ideal for traditional cuisine. The Kotari Istarsko, a combination of Istrian varieties, is for those seeking intensity and character. Kotari olive oils consistently win gold medals at international competitions. "We've stopped counting the awards," joked Stanka Jagar, co-owner of the brand.
Completing the Mingle&Brunch experience was GlamBread by Barélli, a unique bread made from whole grain flour and enriched with nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and olive oil. With love, passion, and tradition, brand owner Marija Zdilar has brought new energy and artistic creativity to a seemingly simple product – bread – reminding consumers of the importance of family gatherings around the table. In addition to its stunning presentation, GlamBread is highly nutritious, as confirmed by lab tests. It comes in six flavors and can be custom ordered.
“This event reminded us that it takes little for a person to feel good – a slice of bread, a drop of oil, and a glass of wine. The best things in life are always simple, “ added Milica Šundov - MilyFood, renowned food blogger.
Ravni Kotari – A Vision of the Future
Kotari embodies a new philosophy that merges sustainability with modernity. Since 2006, on 50 hectares (124 acres) of fertile land, they have produced premium wines, olive oils, and figs. Quality and ecology have been the priority from the very beginning.
A generational shift and a rebranding have raised the bar even higher. The production style has adapted to modern consumers seeking lighter, easier-drinking wines with lower alcohol levels. Tradition is preserved through native varieties – such as Maraština, Plavina, Crljenak, and Plavac.
“Our biggest reward is the customers who keep coming back. That must mean we’re doing something right,” confirmed Stanka Jagar.
The new visual identity is the icing on the cake – more proof that Kotari has a serious and bright future. The return of Crljenak and Maraština, organic cultivation, drip irrigation – all show that tradition and innovation can and must go hand in hand.
Kotari proves how the quiet, understated Zadar hinterland has so much to offer. We invite you to taste – because these products don’t just speak of terroir, they speak of people who believe things can and must be done better.
