Wine Day at Buchlov

JR: There are plenty of similar wine tastings in the surrounding wine-growing villages — practically every weekend from spring to autumn. So we looked for a way to add extra value, and 30 years ago, together with Danka Klimešová, we started organizing the Wine Conference.

VJ: In addition, each year we focus on specific grape varieties. This year was dedicated to white Pinot varieties (blanc and gris) and Chardonnay, as well as local new breeds such as the red varieties Agni, Dunaj, Laurot, and Sevar. But we never skip our Pálava either — it’s represented here by around 150 samples. 

JR:The auction of selected wines always starts two hours after the tasting begins, so potential bidders don’t have to worry about missing the chance to sample the best wines in time — those are usually the first to disappear. In fact, we even recommend a bit of wine-induced cheer for the bidders — it tends to make it much easier for them to raise their paddle.

VJ: This year, the proceeds from the auction of champion wines go to charity in cooperation with the Via Iva Foundation, supporting children with disabilities. The entire family was present, but we prefer not to share details publicly, including the amount raised (although auction participants are, of course, aware — nearly CZK 200,000 was collected this year for little Matýsek, editor’s note). We don’t do it for publicity. In the past, for example, we were able to help fund a wheelchair for Adam from Staré Město, who was born with cerebral palsy.