(Continued from “The Czech Enigma II” on 16 January 2014)
While Austria and Germany have left an indelible mark on Czech history, France might be the kindred spirit of the Czech Republic in art and philosophy. The term “Bohemianism” – a French concept denoting the practice of unconventional lifestyle, and arguably the exact opposite of Prussianism – refers specifically to the Czech region of Bohemia, whether it is due to Protestantism in the 15th century, or the Romani people.
While laïcité (meaning secularity, ie the absence of religion in government affairs and conversely the absence of government in religious affairs) is a republican doctrine in France, the Czech version would be overwhelming irreligion, for the Czech Republic is the most non-religious country in Europe and possibly of the whole world, with merely 20% of its population declaring their faith.
Throughout history, the Czechs more often assumed the role of reformer such as Christian reformer Jan Hus and pedagogue Jan Amos Komenský, or artistic innovators such as composer Bedřich Smetana, composer Antonín Leopold Dvořák and Art Nouveau grand master Alfons Maria Mucha. Whether this is because of an innate affinity to Quartier Latin, or as a reaction to Austrian monarchism and Prussian militarism, one could only second-guess.
In oenological terms, as France boasts a clear majority of international grape varieties, which have conquered every corner of the world and become almost a rite of passage for burgeoning wine regions, it is perhaps no surprise that the Czech Republic would opt to perfect the arts of French varieties, as much as it mains a distinctive Austrian and German heritage.
Established in 1430, Château Valtice is one of the largest producers in the Czech Republic, with some 420ha under vine. Before and after joining the European Union in 2004, large amount of capital has been injected to modernise the Czech wine industry, and quality has been steadily on the rise.
Château Valtice Rulandské Modré Pozdní Sběr 2011
Equivalent to Spätlese. Rulandské Modré is the Czech name of Pinot Noir. Dark garnet with cardinal-carmine rim, the forest-like nose offers cassis, blackberry and fresh mushroom. Braced by lively acidity and dry tannins, the fleshy palate delivers bilberry, black cherry and oaky smoke. Thoroughly dry and medium-bodied at 11.5%, the approachable entry continues through a spiced mid-palate, leading to a herbal finish.
Château Valtice Cabernet Sauvignon Pozdní Sběr 2011
Equivalent to Spätlese. The international variety of Cabernet Sauvignon requires no aliases. Reddish black with cardinal-carmine rim, the fragrant nose offers cassis, blackberry and spice box. Sustained by ample acidity and rich tannins, the creamy palate delivers black cherry, damson and tobacco. Thoroughly dry and medium-bodied at 11.5%, the herbal entry carries onto an active mid-palate, leading to medium-long a finish.
Château Valtice Merlot Pozdní Sběr 2011
Equivalent to Spätlese. The international variety of Merlot requires no aliases. Reddish black with cardinal-ruby rim, the aromatic nose offers cassis, cinnamon and geranium. Maintained by plentiful acidity and dry tannins, the juicy palate delivers black cherry, leather and forest mushroom. Thoroughly dry and medium-bodied at 11.5%, the fruity entry extends to a spiced mid-palate, leading to a long finish. Jacky I.F. Cheong
To discover Czech wines, contact Mr Chris Chan of Tomizawa Co Ltd; E: chris@tomizawa.com.mo; T: +853 6661 6195
Jacky I.F. Cheong is a legal professional by day and columnist by night. Having spent his formative years in Britain, France, and Germany, he regularly writes about wine, fine arts, classical music, and politics in several languages
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