Andrea Calek

Originally from the Czech Republic, Andrea Calek is a pivotal figure in the natural wine movement in France. After leaving his homeland, Calek apprenticed under renowned natural winemakers in France, eventually settling in the Ardèche region around 2007 to establish his own estate. Calek’s estate, located in Valvignères, Ardèche spans approximately five hectares of vines cultivated organically and certified by AB (Agriculture Biologique). His rise to prominence in the natural wine community is marked by his unorthodox methods and the wild, vibrant character of his wines which resonate with enthusiasts of natural, unfiltered wines. His limited production, which rarely exceeds 15,000 bottles annually, adds to the exclusivity and desirability of his wines.

Calek’s winemaking is deeply rooted in the principles of natural wine, characterized by a hands-off approach that allows the grapes to express their full potential with minimal human intervention. He relies on spontaneous fermentation using native yeasts, and his wines are typically bottled without filtration or added sulfur, resulting in a raw, authentic expression of the Ardèche terroir. The region’s limestone-clay soils and rugged terrain, coupled with a continental climate characterized by hot summers and cold winters, create ideal conditions for the cultivation of varieties such as Syrah, Grenache, Carignan, Viognier, and Chardonnay. These elements contribute to the distinctive freshness, acidity, and vibrant energy found in Calek’s wines, which are both reflective of their terroir and the winemaker’s unconventional spirit.