The First Steps
Transitioning from an engineer in the automotive industry in Germany to becoming a sommelier now living in the Netherlands was a significant life change for me and my family. My husband was in a burnout phase, and with the birth of our second child (for him his 4th), we decided a major change was necessary. Our journey into the world of wine began when we visited friends in the Czech Republic and fell in love with Czech winemakers and their exquisite wines.
A Rich History of Winemaking
Czech winemaking has deep roots going back to the Roman era, similar to many other European wine countries. However, the industry faced significant challenges during World War II and under communist rule. The focus shifted from quality to quantity, with state-controlled cooperatives dominating production.
Post-Communism Renaissance
The fall of communism in 1989 marked a turning point. Vineyards were privatized, and there was a renewed focus on quality. Modern technology and techniques were adopted, blending seamlessly with traditional methods and native grape varieties. This renaissance brought a new era of Czech winemaking.
Perfect Climate for Grapes
The Czech Republic enjoys a continental climate with warm summers, ample sunshine, moderate rainfall, and diverse soil types. This climate is particularly favorable in the Moravian region, which is known for its significant microclimatic variation, perfect for grape growing.
Grape Varieties
With approximately 18,189 hectares of vineyards, the Czech Republic boasts over fifty different grape varieties, primarily cultivated in the Moravia region, which accounts for about 96% of the country's vineyards.
White Grapes:
Grüner Veltliner
Riesling
Chardonnay
Sauvignon Blanc
Gewürztraminer
Pinot Blanc
Red Grapes:
Blaufränkisch (Frankovka)
St. Laurent
Blauer Portugieser
Merlot
Pinot Noir
Most of the wines produced are consumed domestically, with only a few premium producers exporting their wines. We are proud to be among the select few bringing Czech wines to international markets. Explore our collection from the Czech Republic on Hidden Tastes.
The Thriving Wine Tourism
The investment in winemaking and wineries in recent years is astounding. Visitors to Moravia are often amazed by the blend of old traditions, youthful spirits, innovative techniques, and stunning architectural designs.
We have curated a list of selected producers with remarkable winery projects that we dearly love:
(we are sure this list will be updated continiously)
Upcoming Book and Wine Tours
Our book, "On the Path to the Czech Republic: Wine, Food, and Architecture," is set to be published this autumn. Stay tuned for updates!
Join us on our Wine Tours for a culinary travel experience through the Czech Republic. Discover the rich flavors and history of Czech wine firsthand.
We hope you enjoyed learning about the vibrant world of Czech winemaking. Whether you are a wine enthusiast or a curious traveler, the Czech Republic offers a unique and enriching experience. Cheers to new adventures and exquisite wines!
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