By CWD BloggerC
Nestled in the heart of South Moravia’s Znojmo sub-region, Vinné Sklepy Lechovice, also known as Lechovice Winery, stands as a beacon of tradition and innovation in Czech winemaking. With a rich history spanning centuries, the winery continues to thrive, merging its historical roots with modern practices to craft wines that are celebrated both locally and internationally.
A Glimpse into the Winery’s Heritage
Lechovice Winery’s origins trace back to the early 18th century. Historical records show that in 1723, permission was granted to establish a wine cellar in the chateau park of Lechovice. By 1837, this cellar was completed, providing an ideal environment for aging wines. Over the years, the winery has maintained this tradition, using the same cellar to mature its wines under optimal conditions.
In 1993, the modern incarnation of the winery was established, building upon its historical foundation while adopting contemporary techniques to enhance wine quality. The winery’s vineyards are spread across 236 hectares in prime locations, including Borotice, Božice, Oleksovice, and Lechovice. These sites benefit from South Moravia’s unique terroir, characterized by chalky soils and a climate that balances warm days with cool nights, ideal for cultivating aromatic grape varieties.
The Terroir and Viticulture
South Moravia’s Znojmo sub-region is celebrated for its exceptional wine-growing conditions. The chalky soils impart a distinct minerality to the wines, while the region’s temperate climate enhances the aromatic qualities of the grapes.
Lechovice Winery’s commitment to sustainable viticulture is evident in its practices, which include reduced yields and careful vineyard management to ensure only the highest quality grapes are harvested.
The winery’s vineyards are known for producing a wide array of grape varieties, with a particular emphasis on aromatic whites such as Sauvignon,
Pálava, and Tramín. These wines are celebrated for their vibrant aromas, crisp acidity, and elegant balance.
Featured winery: Lechovice Winery
Winemaking Excellence Under Jan Hrachovský
At the helm of Vinné Sklepy Lechovice’s winemaking is Jan Hrachovský, a talented oenologist whose expertise and passion have elevated the winery’s reputation. Combining traditional methods with modern innovations, production director Hrachovský ensures that each bottle reflects the authentic character of the vineyard and the vintage. Techniques such as controlled fermentation and precise bottling allow for wines of exceptional quality and consistency.
A Commitment to Quality and Sustainability
Lechovice Winery’s dedication to quality is matched by its commitment to sustainability. By practicing integrated pest management and minimizing chemical use, the winery fosters a harmonious relationship with the environment. This approach not only preserves the natural beauty of the region but also ensures that the wines are a true expression of their origin.
You can learn about Lechovice winery, its philosophy, wines, food pairings and much, much more here on our blog.
Lechovice Winery a Diverse Portfolio of Wines
Lechovice Winery offers a versatile range of wines that cater to diverse palates. Their portfolio includes:
- Aromatic Whites: Sauvignon, Pálava, and Tramín dominate the lineup, showcasing the winery’s mastery of aromatic grape varieties. These wines are noted for their expressive aromas and refreshing profiles.
- Unique Sweet Wines: The winery is renowned for its ice wines and straw wines. These dessert-style wines are crafted using traditional methods, resulting in intense sweetness, concentrated flavors, and remarkable aging potential.
- Sparkling Wines: Lechovice Winery’s sparkling offerings include wines aged under unique conditions, such as at the bottom of the Vranov Dam. This innovative approach adds an extra dimension of character to their sparkling wines.
- Red and Rosé Wines: While white wines dominate their portfolio, Lechovice also produces elegant red and rosé wines that highlight the diversity of South Moravia’s terroir.
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Awards and Recognition
The winery’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. Lechovice wines have garnered numerous awards at both domestic and international competitions. Their aromatic whites and sweet wines, in particular, have been celebrated for their exceptional quality and distinctiveness, solidifying the winery’s place among South Moravia’s leading producers.
Visiting Vinné Sklepy Lechovice
For wine enthusiasts, a visit to Vinné Sklepy Lechovice is a journey into the heart of South Moravian winemaking. The historic cellars in Lechovice provide a glimpse into centuries-old traditions, while tasting sessions offer an opportunity to experience the winery’s diverse range of wines.
Visitors can explore the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and immerse themselves in the rich cultural and natural heritage of the Znojmo sub-region.
Conclusion
Vinné Sklepy Lechovice is more than just a winery; it is a testament to the enduring legacy of South Moravian viticulture. With its blend of historical charm, sustainable practices, and innovative winemaking, Lechovice Winery continues to captivate wine lovers around the world. Whether you are a connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, their wines promise an unforgettable experience that embodies the spirit of South Moravia.
