Chris Wiltshire
Is intoxicated by ‘Czech Tuscany’ and some of its standout stars
Deep in the heart of the picturesque region of the Czech Republic they call the Moravian Tuscany, I meet Frankovka. She is fresh, refined, full-bodied and utterly intoxicating.
I know in an instant that I have found my perfect dinner companion, a fruity little number to suit any occasion. The biggest challenge is bringing her back home with me.
Frankovka, you see, is a delicious red wine cultivated on the lush, undulating hills of the former communist state, a country more renowned for its quality beers than its wines.
I’m introduced to her by Jan Stavek, on a hill overlooking the nine hectares of vineyards that his family have lovingly nurtured for four generations.
It’s a beautiful place with villages dotted among the landscape, their red terracotta roofs gleaming in the sun, with neighbouring Austria and Slovakia off in the distance.
It’s little wonder this region has been nicknamed the Czech Tuscany, and yet very few British tourists have so far stumbled on it.
As we enjoy the views, Jan introduces us to two prized wines – the J Stavek sauvignon and rosé, Tercie – before we head to his idyllic winery in the village of Nemcicky for an introduction to fabulous Frankovka.
Lashings of local sausages, pâté and cheese are laid out as we devour the ruby red wine,