Gurdau

Riesling Stara Hora

Czech Republic, Moravia

2021

Riesling Stara Hora
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Before phylloxera the wines from Kurdejov, in the Zdanicke hills, were highly sought after. Since 2012 Gurdau have been revitalising this once flourishing industry. Stara Hora Riesling is bewitching; off dry with threads of meadow flowers, melon, honey. Wonderful balance, depth and energy. Pair with John Dory and roasted fennel.

Riesling Stara Hora

Harvested from the Stara Hora vineyard (233-285 m altitude).

Planted in 2013, organic certification since 2023.

6600 vines per hectare, single Guyot.

Hand-harvested in small baskets, yields 38 hl/ha, soft press.

6300 bottles produced.

Fermented and aged in Slavonian oak barrels, a combination of 600L and 2000L, for 9 months on fine lees without stirring.

Aged for 12 months in the bottle before release.

History

Rooted in the historic Zdanicke Hills, Kurdejov village exudes timeless charm. Its unique microclimate and varied soils, including siltstone, limestone, sandstone, marl, and clay, have supported exceptional grape cultivation since the 13th century. Austrian, German, and Swiss settlers in the 17th century further enhanced local winemaking techniques, blending them with regional traditions.

In 1720, the village was renamed "GURDAU" by its German-speaking residents, symbolizing the integration of diverse cultural influences. This led to an 18th-century golden era, with wine production soaring and Kurdejov’s wines becoming highly sought after in Vienna and Brno. However, the phylloxera plague devastated the vineyards in the late 19th century. Attempts to revive viticulture in the early 20th century were hindered by the post-World War II exodus of the German population, leaving Kurdejov's winemaking heritage dormant.

In 2012, GURDAU Winery revitalized Kurdejov’s winemaking legacy. The winery planted 7 hectares of vineyards in 2013, expanding to 10 hectares by 2022 under winemaker Marek Sedlacek. GURDAU wines celebrate Kurdejov's rich heritage, showcasing dedication to quality and tradition.

Responding to their wines' growing popularity, GURDAU Winery began a significant project in 2020 to build a new cellar and presentation space. Designed by architect Ales Fiala, the new facility was completed in 2022. Set within Kurdejov’s scenic landscape, the winery offers more than just exceptional wines—it provides a peaceful retreat where guests can enjoy the tranquility of the countryside. Visitors can experience wine tastings, gourmet dining, and comfortable accommodations amidst stunning natural beauty.

GURDAU Winery invites you to explore not only its wines but the entire sensory journey rooted in centuries of history, with the promise of a vibrant future, all set against the backdrop of Kurdejov's enduring hills.

Tasting
NOTES

Bewitching nose: bags of minerality along with dried meadow flowers and jasmine, freshly cut melon, apricot, acacia honey, orange peel and ginger. Promising. A very layered palate shows ripe lemons, green apples, ripe honeydew melon and a slightly waxy texture and a perfect balance between acidity and sweetness. The saline finish with pineapple undertones is poised and off dry. Overall, this is a great wine with wonderful balance, depth and energy.

Food
PAIRINGS

Riesling always works well with seafood; John Dory with roasted fennel and a beurre blanc, or raw scallop, kohlrabi with lemon and olive oil, buttermilk vinaigrette and coriander oil. For meat lovers, pair with pork cutlets served with tempura vegetables.

Contact
PRODUCER

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Riesling Stara Hora

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