Hand-Made Bota Wineskin - Traditional Pitch Lined Interior

Las Tres Z.Z.Z. of Pamplona is one of the classic makers of fine botas. Each bota is fashioned from a goat's skin cured with olive or other vegetable oils to make the hide pliable.

The skin is cut and sewn by hand to make a tight pleating. Next, it is turned inside out and pitch is applied to the surface. Very short bristles of hair are left on the inside of each bag to hold the pitch, which is then heated to create a water proof resin that will last for years. Finally, the bota is sewn together and the final touches are added.

There are about 40 stages of production before the wineskin is finished. This is truly among the finest botas available in the world.

It is necessary to prepare your traditional bota before using it to hold good wine, as the pitch lining of the traditional bota has a strong taste of its own. This procedure is only necessary for the pitch-lined botas, not those lined with latex. First, warm it in the sun so that the pitch within will distribute evenly. Next, blow into the opening of the bota to inflate it, separating the sides; the warmer the pitch the easier it will be to inflate the bota. Add cold water and set the bota aside to cure. After a few days, replace the water with inexpensive wine and let it cure for as long as you can. When you finally discard the wine your bota will be ready for use.