JAROSLAV OSIČKA - 2023 Ryšák

Ryšák
Vintage: 2022
Region, Sub-Region & Village: Morava, Velkopavlovická & Velké Bílovice
Vineyard(s): Zadní hora, Přední hora
Altitude of Vineyard(s): 200-250 meters above sea level
Soil Composition of Vineyard(s): loess / clay & loam soil
Prevailing Climate & Local Climactic:  Continental climate, hot days, cool nights
Farming of Vineyard: practicing organic
Composition:  20% Pinot Gris, 20% Pinot Noir, 20% Blaufrankisch, 20% Zweigelt and 20% Modry Portugal.
Harvest: September 2022
Maceration: whole cluster, foot crushed, macerated 8 hours
Fermentation/Aging: open oak and stainless steel vats, sur lie
Fining & Filtration Methods: non
Date of Bottling. April, 2023
Bottles Produced: 2,000

What is Ryšák?

A style of wine once ubiquitous across Europe today found only in the Morava region of Czech. It is called Ryšák, which translates as “ginger”. Historically vineyards consisted of mixed red and white grape vines and the wines were resultantly mixed. As the European codification of appellation developed these wines disappeared in lieu of “pure” varietal wines or permitted blends. This makes it easier for the consumer to recognize brands but erases tons of diversity. We want that diversity! Ryšák can actually be just about anything. It is governed only by requirements relating to its farming. Region, harvest, yields, etc. It could be from any mix of grapes in any proportion. Co-fermented or blended in the cellar, sold young, or old. There are not really many rules, encouraging producers to let taste dictate the final composition without losing the designation. Customarily Ryšák is easy drinking and convivial but the very best of them are the best of Czech wine.