The Wine Rose of Vinodol, a tale reaching far back into history, has been revived through a three-day competition thanks to the joint efforts of neighboring tourist boards, the city and municipality, along with many sponsors and patrons. The aim is to bring this tradition closer to residents and visitors of Novi Vinodolski, offering a unique and memorable experience.

The competition began last Friday with the presentation of the contestants for the Wine Rose of Vinodol, and now proceeds to the most beautiful and challenging part: showcasing skill and resourcefulness through nine games. The current Ružica, Neva Cuculić, wore her crown longer due to pandemic cancellations—but this year, she will ceremoniously pass it to the new Ružica, who will hold the title for the coming year.

This year’s contestants come from all over Croatia — not just Novi Vinodolski, but Karlovac, Vrbovsko, Zmajevac, Zagreb, Bribir, and Rijeka: Tina Mataija, Anja Brkljača, Sara Đukić, Elena Nikolić, Ivana Dražić, Ivana Tropčić, Marta Maretić, Ana‑Maria Peica Butković, Dahlia Rosa Zajec, and Hana Uremović.

On Thursday evening, the lively competition starts in the Pavlomir vineyards at 8:00 PM, featuring new games: traditional grape stomping, hand-pressing juice, and water-filling challenges. Trio Novi will provide a musical backdrop, followed by the band Point. Visitors can enjoy fine wines, culinary offerings, and engaging entertainment. Spectators are also invited to participate in games and surprises.

Friday night begins with a procession of the Ružica and her entourage along Korzo hrvatskih branitelja to the ancient town and Precrikva, where three challenges await: coffee grinding, crafting fig-and-laurel chains, and bottle labeling. The group Nebuloza will perform in front of the church, followed by music from band Venus.

The final day, Saturday, continues at Precrikva with more contests: bottling and sealing wines, pouring into glasses, and a brand-new challenge: opening sparkling wine. Judges and an expert panel will evaluate performance and score the contestants. Musically, the evening features Nebuloza again, followed by Swing and klapa Dišpet for a memorable finale.

After the games, contestants join the celebration near the main stage. At 11:30 PM on Frankopan Square, the winner, first and second runner-up, plus the “People’s Favorite” will be announced.

On both Friday and Saturday, the city center will host stalls selling local products and crafts, alongside wine booths: Pavlomir, Eko Etno Selce, and the Kvarner wines association. Festival-themed tunics will also be available at the Ružica Vinodola stand as souvenirs.

Sponsors have secured wonderful prizes: first prize—a seven-day Adriatic cruise with Katarina‑line; second—weekend stay at Hotel Eden**** in Rovinj; third—an excursion with lunch and tasting at Konoba Luce in Vrbnik (courtesy of Adria Mare Travel Agency). Special thanks to RM Nekretnine, the Kvarner Tourist Board, Pavlomir winery, plus sponsors Drveni val and Infinity Design, for supporting the event.

The event is organized by the Tourist Board of the City of Novi Vinodolski and the Tourist Board of Vinodolska Municipality, with the City and Municipality serving as main patrons.