Situated north of Prague on the Labe River, the small town of Melnik has a history going back over a thousand years, and holds a unique place in Czech history. Originally the site was a possession of Bohemia’s earliest queen, Ludmila, and for many centuries afterwards, it served as a refuge for widowed queens and princesses. Vineyards first appeared in the 14th century. Today the area’s unique climate and the traditional techniques employed by local wine-makers produce the high-quality wines for which Melnik is justly famous.

In 1753 Ludmila’s castle passed into the possession of the ancient Lobkovitz family.The family’s 18th century renovations – and the much-needed restoration carried out by the Lobkovitz heir after the fall of Communism – produced the gorgeous Renaissance chateau visitors see today. Its interiors show off a priceless art collection, and its extensive wine cellars boast an impressive wine archive. We will visit the cellars and sample the splendid local wines.