Vineyards of Melnik
This largest vine region in Bohemia is situated at the meeting point of the Labe [Elbe] and Vltava rivers .
A massif of "Ceské stredohori" mountain protects the vineyards against cold northern winds. By its warm vapours the Labe [Elbe] river gives to the autumn grapes typical taste and individual bouquet. The vineyards have a lime-stone bed with clay-sand alluvium and loess. These light soils give good conditions for blue vine cultivation. "Rulandske modre [Pinot noir]" , excellent for
a production of sparkling wines here, was imported by Charles IV as a gift of allegiance to the burghers of Melnik and became
the most spread local vine. Some of the wines are
known especially for the vine cultivation along the river in
a neighbourhood of the chateau of Melnik. In 1882 the School of Viticulture was established with aim to ensure sufficient number of skilled workers and experts. Today "Modry Portugal [Blue Portuguese]", "Rulandske sede" [Pinot gris], "Muller-Thurgau" are the most cultivated vines here.
Cite:
Bechlin, Dolni Berkovice, Jevineves, Kelske Vinice, Kly, Libechov, Melnik, Mlazice,
Poceplice, Predonin, Skuhrov, Vehlovice, Vlineves, Zaborí u Kel
