To discover Czechia through wine is to discover a landscape, a way of life, and centuries of tradition. Follow the vineyards, step into historic wine villages, meet local winemakers, and taste wines that tell the story of the places where they are made.
Grape harvest festivals in Czechia
The grape harvest season is one of the best times to experience Czech wine culture. Known as vinobraní, these lively celebrations combine wine tasting with folklore, music, traditional costumes, local food, and historical events.
In Mikulov, the Pálava Grape Harvest Festival takes place in September. The Znojmo Historical Grape Harvest Festival, one of the largest events of its kind in Czechia, takes place on the same weekend in the historic center of Znojmo. Other popular celebrations in September include the Burčák Festival in Hustopeče, the Mělník Grape Harvest and Bzenec Grape Harvests, and the Slovácko Wine Festival in Uherské Hradiště.
Open wine cellars
Open wine cellars offer a more intimate way to meet local winemakers and taste their wines. In selected wine-growing villages, several wineries regularly open their doors throughout the season, with fixed opening hours at weekends and the option to visit during the week by prior arrangement.
Wine and architecture
Wine and architecture make an especially striking combination in the South Moravian Region. Near Znojmo, the Lahofer Winery blends contemporary architecture with the surrounding vineyards, while the Sonberk Winery near Mikulov offers spectacular views of Pálava from its terrace. Other examples of contemporary winery architecture include Starý vrch, Krásná hora and Obelisk Winery near Valtice. The Pálava wine region is ideal for combining wine tasting with hiking or cycling.
Wine in Prague and Bohemia
You can also discover Czech wine without leaving the capital. Prague's vineyards combine wine, history, and city views, with harvest celebrations taking place at Troja Chateau, St. Clare Vineyard, Villa Richter near Prague Castle, and Grébovka Park.
Beyond Moravia, Mělník is one of Bohemia's best-known wine towns. Set above the confluence of the Vltava and Elbe rivers, the town is dominated by Mělník Chateau, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and countryside. It hosts the annual Mělník Grape Harvest Festival in September.
From Burčák to St. Martin's Wine
Autumn brings another Czech wine tradition: burčák, young, partially fermented grape must that is available for a short time during the harvest season. Later in the year comes St. Martin's wine, traditionally first opened on St. Martin's Day, 11 November. The annual Svatomartinský Košt in Brno, also held on 11 November, is a popular opportunity to taste the new vintage and celebrate the arrival of the season’s first wines.
