Nov 12, 2021

A look Into St. Martin's Wines in the Czech Republic - and Where to Buy Your Bottle

Prague Morning

On Thursday, November 11, sales of St. Martin’s wines began throughout the nation.

These are the best Czech young wines of the season, chosen by professional tasters and specialists of the Wine Foundation of the Czech Republic.

This organization owns the Svatomartinské víno trademark. Every year, hundreds of producers fight for the right to use it, sending samples of young wines for review.

If the drink meets strict quality standards, then it is labeled a St. Martin’s wine for one year.

The tradition of “tasting selection” and the name itself originated in the 18th century. During the reign of Emperor Joseph II, on St. Martin’s Day, vineyard owners approached winemakers for them to taste new wines.

The winemakers would then decide whether to renew their contract for another year or to hire other specialists.

In 2021, 328 wines from 80 producers were tested for quality. In total, about 2.2 million bottles entered the market.

To avoid choosing the wrong wine and to avoid spoiling the tradition, residents should stop by the LÁHVE store: and buy St. Martin’s wine there.

Twelve delicious items from four Moravian wineries were chosen for the season: Vinařství Škrobák, Vinařství Vajbar, Vinařství V&M Zborovský and Vinařství Maňák. They promise not to disappoint.

There are seven white, three rosé and two red St. Martin’s wines in the store. This is a seasonal product, so don’t miss out!