A Glass Between Sea and Soil: Touring Stancija Collis Near Rovinj
A three-hour private tasting that pairs Istrian terroir with small-farm food—why a Collis visit feels like a true local invitation.
You step out of the van and the Adriatic rearranges the air. It’s cooler a few kilometers inland from Rovinj’s old town—salt softened by vineyards and the warm, mineral breath of terra rossa soil. Rows of vines march up a gentle slope toward a low stone house where Stancija Collis has quietly turned winemaking into a small ritual. The first thing you notice is the view: green vines folding into olive trees, the glitter of islands off the coast, and a cellar door that smells faintly of earth and oak.
Trail Wisdom
Book the private slot
Collis operates private tours—reserve in advance, especially in late summer and harvest season.
Wear sturdy shoes
Vine rows and cellar floors are uneven; closed-toe shoes improve comfort during the walk.
Hydrate between pours
Sip water between tastings to reset your palate and stay hydrated in warm months.
Bring a light layer
Coastal breezes make mornings and evenings cool; pack a light jacket for comfort.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Punta Corrente (Golden Cape) forest park for a seaside walk after your tasting
- •Small konobas inland offering pasta with truffles and family-made prosciutto
Wildlife
Bottlenose dolphins offshore, Herons and other coastal birds in marshy coves
Conservation Note
Many Istrian wineries practice small-scale, low-intervention farming; support local producers and avoid single-use plastics when visiting.
Istrian viticulture dates back to Roman times; the region later thrived under Venetian trade routes that shaped its culinary and wine traditions.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Lush vineyard views, Milder tasting conditions
Challenges: Occasional rain showers
Spring brings green vines and comfortable temperatures—expect damp ground after rains and a lively landscape.
summer
Best for: Open-air tastings, Pairing with local seasonal produce
Challenges: High sun and heat, Busy tourist period
Long, sunny days are ideal for vineyard strolls, but bring sun protection and book early to avoid crowds.
fall
Best for: Harvest activity, Full-bodied reds
Challenges: Unpredictable weather during harvest
Autumn is harvest season—vibrant and busy, with excellent chances to see winemaking in action and taste fresh vintages.
winter
Best for: Quieter visits, Cellar-focused explanations
Challenges: Cooler temperatures; limited outdoor tasting
Winter is low season—tastings move indoors and offer a more intimate, behind-the-scenes cellar experience.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Closed-toe walking shoesEssential
Protects feet on gravel paths and in the cellar.
Light wind jacket
Blocks coastal breezes during outdoor tastings.
Wide-brim sun hat
Keeps sun off your face during vineyard walks.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Hydration between pours keeps you comfortable and alert.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The standard tour runs approximately three hours and includes a vineyard walk, cellar visit, and guided tasting with local pairings.
Is transportation provided from Rovinj?
Some bookings include pickup; confirm with the operator. Otherwise, it’s a 10–20 minute drive from central Rovinj—taxis and rental cars are common options.
Can I buy wine at the winery?
Yes—Collis often sells bottles directly; ask about shipping options if you can’t transport them home.
Are tours accessible for people with mobility issues?
The cellar and tasting area are generally accessible, but vineyard rows are uneven—contact the operator to discuss specific needs.
Is the tasting food-friendly for dietary restrictions?
Pairings are made with local products; notify the operator ahead of time for vegetarian, vegan, or allergy accommodations.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes—Collis operates private tours and availability can be limited in high season, so book ahead to secure your preferred time.
What to Pack
Closed-toe shoes for uneven ground, reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, light jacket for coastal breezes, sun protection (hat/sunscreen) for summer tastings
Did You Know
Istria’s signature white grape, Malvazija Istarska (Malvasia), is indigenous to the peninsula and has been cultivated here since Roman times—a cornerstone of local wine identity.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Fly into Pula Airport (35 km); 2) Book private tours in advance; 3) Combine with Rovinj Old Town for a full day; 4) Cash or card accepted, but small producers may prefer cardless payments verification
Local Flavor
After your tasting, head back to Rovinj’s waterfront for grilled seafood and a cold beer, or inland to a konoba for truffle-hunting menus and Istrian prosciutto—both pair beautifully with Collis wines.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Pula Airport (~35 km). Typical driving time from Rovinj: 10–20 minutes. Cell service: generally good. Permits: none for tastings. Meeting point: usually at the winery (some tours offer pickup).
Sustainability Note
Many small Istrian wineries, including Collis, emphasize low-intervention methods—support sustainable producers, avoid bringing single-use plastics, and take only photographs and memories from the land.