Burčák, the beloved partially fermented wine, is a bit scarcer this year compared to last, primarily due to spring frosts that decimated about a third of the domestic grape harvest. Despite this setback, prices are expected to remain similar to last year. Currently, a liter of white burčák can be purchased for an average of 90 crowns from both winemakers and wine shops.
“According to current legislation, burčák must originate solely from grapes grown in the Czech Republic. It can only be sold from August through the end of November,” explained agricultural analyst Petr Havel.
Typically, sales begin later in the season, but this year was different. Particularly in Moravia, some winemakers brought burčák to market on the very first permissible day.
“This year, burčák is being sold very early, and its quality is high. The grapes are perfectly ripe with high sugar content. It also has less acidity, making it easier to drink,” assessed Jiří Maděrič, Vice-Chairman of the Winemakers Association.