You may not have known it, but the Czech Republic is a wine-producing country. In fact, the country boasts several vineyards, particularly in the heart of the Moravian region.
In the rest of this article, we’ll introduce you to the characteristics of Czech grape varieties, its wines and the world around it.
This is your chance to immerse yourself in a traditional part of the local culture and expand your horizons, so you can surprise your guests with delicious bottles.
Wine in the Czech Republic
In the Czech Republic, wine is mainly produced in Moravia. In this region, the soil is more favorable to the development of vineyards. As a result, wine consumption is booming in this beer-loving country. It is estimated that the average total consumption is 20 liters per person per year.
Czech wine is characterized by small-scale production. Total vineyard production covers around 19,600 hectares (compared with 750,000 in France). The vast majority of production, around 60% is white wine. The remainder is divided between red and rosé wines.
Viticulture in Moravia
In the rest of this article, we’ll tell you all you need to know about viticulture in the heart of Moravia!
The soils
Moravia’s natural conditions pave the way for the production of wines of exceptional quality. As well as being powerful in flavor, the wines also have a higher content of healthy natural agents. The reason is quite simple. Moravia’s soils are built on marine and freshwater sediments and loess. In fact, there are quite a few shellfish!
Depending on the area, the specific characteristics change. On the Palava side, you can see limestone soils. In Znojmo, on the other hand, you’ll find gravelly soils. Lastly, the Velké Pavlovice region is home to sandy soils. In short, a multitude of different characteristics for quality vineyards.
The climate
The climate in the Czech Republic is continental. Temperatures and variations are quite similar to those in Burgundy or the Loire Valley in France. As a result, the region’s wines are generally classified as light to medium-bodied, predominantly white aromatic, with pronounced levels of acidity.
Grape varieties
As we have seen, the Czech Republic is best known for its white wines. The best grape varieties grown in Moravia are Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Blanc and Chardonnay. There are also more local varieties, such as Palava and Moravian Muscat. The most popular red grape varieties are Pinot Noir, Merlot and Cabernet Moravia.
Which are the best-known Moravian wineries?
At present, it’s the Sonberk winery, just 25 kilometers from Slovakia, that is the symbol of the breakthrough for Czech wines. 45 hectares of vineyards overlooking Lake Thaya. It was the very first Czech Moravian vineyard to establish its winery in the middle of the vineyard. The year was 2003.
The Pavlov heights and their limestone soils also offer plenty to do. Reisten is a 39-hectare estate located near the old Dívčí hrady castle. An estate that specializes in the production of premium-quality whites.
You can also find out more about Czech wines in our comprehensive guide to the town of Mělník.
Don’t hesitate : try the Moravian wine
Czech wine culture is booming. More and more good vintages are being produced as techniques are perfected. For more information on the gastronomic and wine culture in the Czech Republic, don’t miss our article on typical Czech drinks. This will help you discover what to pair your wine or food with, should you wish to eat like a local.