Strekov 1075 Pinot Noir 2021

Strekov 1075 is a natural wine producer located in the village of Strekov, within Slovakia's Nitra region. Established by Zsolt Sütő, the winery's name reflects the village's first recorded mention in 1075, symbolizing a deep commitment to tradition and local heritage. The estate cultivates 12 hectares of vineyards, emphasizing indigenous grape varieties such as Welschriesling (Rizling vlašský), Grüner Veltliner (Veltlínske zelené), Blaufränkisch (Frankovka modrá), and St. Laurent (Svätovavrinecké). Adhering to organic and biodynamic farming practices, Strekov 1075 employs minimal intervention in both vineyard and cellar. Winemaking techniques include spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts, extended skin contact, and aging in old oak barrels, all conducted without fining, filtration, or added sulfur. This approach results in wines that authentically express the region's unique terroir. Notable cuvées like Porta, an assemblage of Welschriesling and Grüner Veltliner with skin contact maceration, and Creme, a lively pét-nat made from the local Devín grape, exemplify the winery's dedication to producing vibrant, terroir-driven wines.

The Nitra wine region in southwestern Slovakia is renowned for its rich viticultural heritage, with winemaking traditions dating back to the Great Moravian Empire (833–907). This region encompasses nine subregions, including Nitriansky, Hurbanovo, Topoľčianky, Levice, Radošina, Vráble, Zlaté Moravce, Šurany, and Nové Zámky, each contributing unique characteristics to the area's diverse wine profile.

The region's vineyards benefit from a warm, dry climate and varied topography, featuring south-facing slopes and plains with clay, loam, and limestone soils. These conditions are ideal for cultivating a variety of grape types. White grape varieties such as Grüner Veltliner (locally known as Veltlínske zelené) and Welschriesling (Rizling Vlašský) are predominant, each accounting for approximately 20% of the regional vineyard area. Müller-Thurgau also holds a significant presence. Among red varieties, Blaufränkisch (Frankovka modrá) and St. Laurent (Svätovavrinecké) are commonly grown, with small plantings of Cabernet Sauvignon.

The Nitra region is also recognized for producing natural wines, with producers like Strekov 1075 embracing organic and biodynamic farming practices. These winemakers focus on minimal intervention techniques, including spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts and aging in old oak barrels, resulting in wines that authentically express the region's unique terroir. Overall, the Nitra wine region offers a diverse and rich winemaking tradition, producing a wide range of wines that reflect the unique characteristics of its terroir and grape varieties.