The Slovacko wine-growing region is located in the south-east corner of the Czech Republic, nestled between Austria and Slovakia.  As a cool continental wine growing-region, it is located along the same latitude as Alsace in France, Baden in Germany or Weinviertel in Austria. And as such, these regions have many climate moderating factors in common which contributes towards development of fine structured wines.  Slovacko is best known for its fresh dry white wines (Grunner Veltliner is the most planted grape variety just like in Austria) but lately also expressive and complex red wines (such as Pinot Noir). In addition to Moravian indigenous grapes varieties, the Slovacko region is blessed with a long list of novelty crossings, many of which can be found on Spevak Estate. Among the black varieties, our favorites Cabernet Moravia and Cabernet Cortis (bred here in Moravia) are often in the spotlight.

The micro-climate conditions within the close proximity of Dubnany are quite unique: the rolling hills (referred to as Moravian Toscany and sought after by acclaimed photographers) at a low altitude of no more than 200 meters above sea level, situated in the valley of Morava River, provide slope and aspect to the vineyards. The light black soils intensify the temperatures during hot and dry summers, moderated by the north-east winds, and help extend the growing season well into late October. Some vineyards are located atop a dead mud volcano, giving the terroir a mineral to ashy undertone. Others are abundant with heavy clay which helps with water retention during the hot summer months.

But it does not stop there: Slovacko has something you don’t find in Alsace or Baden. Centuries of hard labor in the vineyards and fields, faith, perseverance and humbleness are all forever imprinted into many traditions in Slovacko (e.g. folklore music, folk customs, arts, harvest festivals, Catholic holidays).  And these deep-rooted traditions which are to this day observed by the local communities have a common denominator – wine. Here in Slovacko, wine is a celebration of work, faith and love of life.

Spevak family is a “product” of observing the local traditions. Frantisek a Maruska met during one of folk dances and to this day folklore is an integral part of their identities. And since the last name Spevak means “Singer”, it is never surprising to come across Frantisek’s voice in the vineyard as he sings away one of his favorite songs: “Od vecera do rana, muzika nam vyhrava a ja pijem a ja pijem dobre vinko z pohara. “ (From night to morning, the music keeps playing and I am drinking and drinking a good wine from a glass.).

Frantisek: “Soil and vineyards are in our possession only for a very limited amount of time. We have to take care of them in a way that we can pass them onto new generations in even a better shape than how we got them.”

Frantisek is aware that he has another reason to feel lucky. His sons are into wine-farming as well. And they are very good at it. Frantisek realizes that the new generation brings something anew and useful: new ideas, new vision, new technologies. Innovation.

Today, a combined 10 hectars of vines stand tall and proud. And we turn their grapes into high-quality wines. With LOL (Lots of Love).