Czechia and wine? I admit that until recently they have sounded incomparable to me too. Prague, beer, ice hockey, maybe castles – yes, but the last few days have changed my perception! I might say that I am even very pleasantly surprised. Especially in terms of white wines, South Moravia (96% of the country’s total production is there) is at a fairly high level. Those who are looking for clean, fresh, fair, precise wines, without unnecessary pretensions and tricks, dry or with sugar levels around and slightly above the upper limit, will be satisfied! It was very nice to see how it is coming full circle – in the same modern and minimalist style are the wineries, bars, restaurants and hotels, we have visited during IWINETC 2025.
The local stars are Pálava (a local cross between Gewürztraminer and Müller Thurgau), Veltlínské zelené (Grüner Veltliner), Ryzlink rýnský (Riesling), Ryzlink vlašský (Welshriesling), Tramín červený (Gewürztraminer). In fact, just over 2/3 of the total 17 000 ha of vineyards are white varieties. And here comes the striking difference with Bulgaria (along with the VOC / protected designations of origin, which they are proud of) – the registered wine producers are 1 707, compared to less than 400 in Bulgaria (despite having ca. 30 000 ha in my country)!
As a destination for wine tourism, South Moravia is not better known, excluding probably Czechs and people from the surrounding countries. But local institutions and businesses are working quite actively, so this will soon change. In short: I recommend visiting – either with me & VIA VINO (coming soon!) or on your own. The region is small and super easily accessible from Bulgaria – less than 2 hours drive from Vienna airport. There are countless options for wine tours and accommodation, walks among the mostly flat vineyards, Bike & Wine and much more.
Beyond the good organization of the events and the info tour, useful talks and speeches, tasty meals, paired by plenty of wines, I was very happy as usual to meet at IWINETC my partners, friends and meet new colleagues from all around the world. And get inspired for new wine tours and experiences in the future! Na zdraví!
