Tan Traditional Handmade Bota Wineskin

A real bota wineskin is emblematic of Spain, a work of art that is handmade with expertise handed down over the generations. A wine-filled bota is great for hikes, picnics or any journey. Its soft goat suede exterior is beautiful and comfortable. Share a splash of wine with your friends and bring the romance of old Spain to your gathering.

This classic version of the bota is made the same way it has been for thousands of years. Don't fall for cheap imitations made in China. Each wineskin is made from flawless goat leather by the renowned bota-maker Jesus Blasco and branded with our Peregrino logo. This is truly one of the finest botas available in the world.

There are about 40 stages of production before the wineskin is finished. The leather of our botas is cut and sewn by hand to make a tight pleating. Next, it is turned inside out and pitch is applied to the interior. Finally, the bota is sewn together and the final touches are added.

Our brand, Peregrino, means pilgrim in Spanish. Many of the pilgrims who walk the road to Santiago in Galicia will carry a bota to refresh themselves during their long journey.

Jesús Blasco is a family owned bota workshop in the famous castle town of Sigüenza, a couple of hours northeast of Madrid. Since the 1800s, they've preserved the ancient tradition of bota making, using wood tannins, pine pitch and flawless local goat suede. To this day the family company is run by descendants of the original founder, Julián Blasco.

It is necessary to prepare your traditional bota before using it to hold 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 sit for at least a day. When you finally discard the wine your bota will be ready for use.

When you are not using your traditional wineskin be sure to deflate it and press the sides together to avoid the pitch settling in one region of the bota. Store in a cool dry place.

Does a bota need to be prepared before use?

Yes, the pitch lining inside has a strong taste and should be cured before use.

How do I prepare the bota for curing?

Warm it in the sun to help the pitch distribute evenly. Blow into the opening to inflate the bota and separate the sides. The warmer the pitch, the easier it will be to inflate.

What is the curing process for a new bota?

Fill it with cold water and let it sit for a few days. Then replace the water with inexpensive wine and allow it to sit for at least one day. Discard the wine to complete the process. When you discard the wine your bota will be ready for use. 

What if the pitch taste remains after curing?

Repeat the process using a cheap white liquor, such as vodka.

How should I care for the bota after use?

Drain the contents, leave the cover off and store the bota in a cool, dry place.

What should I do if the bota won't be used for a while?

Deflate it and press the sides together to prevent the pitch from settling unevenly. Before using again, repeat the curing process.

How will my order be packed?

La Tienda packs products carefully to ensure they arrive in top condition. Items will arrive in La Tienda branded boxes.