Pivnica Čajkov - Manka 2023

Manka 2023 is a deeply personal, limited-edition skin-contact white wine made from the historic Alba grape produced as a special collaboration between Pivnica Čajkov and Solo Spirits. A rare expression of old, organically farmed vines rooted in volcanic soils, this wine is a unique interpretation of the estate’s Queen Mom, created in an extremely small quantity of just 260 bottles. Bold, soulful, and uncompromising, Manka is a tribute to memory, tradition, and the preservation of nearly forgotten local vineyards.

Tasting Notes

Earthy and expressive, with layered aromas of warm spice, cold rocks, and subtle herbal tones. The palate is structured and tactile, showing present but refined tannins, balanced by tangy notes of peach tea and mouthwatering acidity. Powerful yet precise, with a long, savoury finish that rewards slow contemplation.

Winemaking

Hand-harvested at the end of September into small crates to preserve fruit integrity. Grapes were gently destemmed and crushed, then macerated on skins for 2–3 weeks in open-top vats with minimal punchdowns to avoid over-extraction. The wine was aged slowly in oak barrels for 18 months, until April 2025. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.

Food Pairing

A natural match for rich, fatty dishes such as oven- or ember-roasted goose with artisanal sourdough and pickles. Also excellent with slow-roasted meats, fermented vegetables, mushroom-driven cuisine, or other deeply savoury dishes that complement the wine’s firm tannins and sappy finish.