Grown on the volcanic slopes of the Štiavnica Mountains in Slovakia, Rustical is a skin-fermented white that defies easy categories. It’s made by Pivnica Čajkov, a small family-run winery known for reviving local grapes and ancient techniques with a natural, hands-off approach. No additives, no filtration—just time on the skins, native yeast, and a deep connection to place.
The 2022 vintage is based on Pinot Gris and local varieties like Pesecká Leánka, showing a coppery hue and a savory, tea-like profile. There’s grip from the tannins, but it’s balanced by dried citrus, orchard fruit, and a kind of herbal lift that keeps it vibrant rather than heavy. The volcanic soils bring a core of minerality that grounds the wine’s wilder edges.
It’s not trying to be an “orange wine” in trend alone—it’s a deeply personal expression of a region with centuries of winemaking history, told through the lens of low-intervention craft. Chill it slightly, decant it gently, and let it pair with everything from grilled trout to spiced lentils. Or just drink it slowly and let the story unfold.