Pivnica Čajkov Princess 2023

Fresh and lively, a little fizz, exotic and unique. A touch of skin contact gives it lovely texture and grip. Made from 100% Peseka Leanka. Previously the most important grape variety in the region around the village of Čajkov. Originating from around Transylvania and/or Moldova - the variety fell out of favour, particuarly since the fall of the wall in 1989. It has been widely ripped out in favour of fashionable and more convienent international varieties.

However Marek looked deeper and maintained his families beloved 'Princess' as they call the grapes. She is quiet and gentle yet she is very tough and almost perfectly suited to thrive in the region. It has thick leaves which are resistant to diesease in the wetter years. It has sparse, early ripening clusters suiting it well again to risk from mildew but also the sunny autumns with occasional heavy rainfalls. It also has abundant, thick roots (particualry in old vines) that allow it thrive in dry years and withstand winter frosts despite being planted in porous volcanic soils.

Pivnica Čajkov is small craft winery located at the foot of the Štiavnica Mountains and the remains of the Sitno volcano in the village of Čajkov, part of the Nitra wine region.
Marek now leads the Uhnák family winery after generations of toil and is harnessing local varieties such as Pesecká Leánka and Feteasca Alba - varieties that are increasingly disappearing in favour of more convenient and popular international varieties. Despite the challenges Marek believes that his local gems are particularly suitable for the local climate/conditions and is passionate about sharing them the world.