Changes of the varietal structure of vineyards in the Czech Republic

Abstract

The paper describes changes in the structure of varieties grown in the Czech Republic. The authors examine the development taking place in this domain within the last 14 years (i.e. from 1997 to 2010). The paper analyses the reasons of these changes and tries to describe the future development expected after 2010. The article also examines the cost and profitability of growing grapes and wine prices. The current production potential of the Czech Republic is 19 633.45 hectares of vineyards. As compared with 1960, the total acreage of vineyards increased nearly three times and the number of the most frequent varieties has also increased. As far as the percentages of Müller Thurgau, Green Veltliner, Italian Riesling and Sankt Laurent varieties is concerned, it is anticipated that their acreages will further decrease, whereas those of Rhein Riesling, Sauvignon, Lemberger and Zweigeltrebe are expected to grow. The results from the survey of consumer behaviour in the wine market in the CR point to the connection between the structure of the vineyards and consumer demand. Lemberger, Cabernet Sauvignon, Müller Thurgau, Grüner Veltliner, Pinot Blanc, Saint Laurent, Blue Portugal, Chardonnay, Riesling and Bohemia Sekt have been the most popular varieties of the market research.

Keywords

• grapevine varieties
• popularity of varieties
• structure
• trends
• vineyard area
• wine prices