Czech and Moravian winemakers increasingly turn to disease-resistant PIWI grapes

Czech and Moravian winemakers are increasingly planting so-called PIWI grape varieties—crossbreeds resistant to fungal diseases. In 2024, they added 44 hectares of new PIWI vineyards, bringing the total area above 1,000 hectares for the first time. Growers cite the varieties’ resilience, higher yields, wine diversity, and eco-friendlier cultivation. Meanwhile, the area of traditional grape varieties continues to shrink. Last year, the total vineyard area in the country dropped by 430 hectares to 17,300—its lowest level in 13 years.