St. Martin´s tradition in the Czech Republic Shortly before the French Beaujolais ...

... is opened, wine lovers in the Czech Republic can enjoy a local speciality. St. Martin's wine, the first wine of the year.

The Martinmas tradition goes back to the 18th century, during the reign of Emperor Joseph II, when vineyard owners used to visit their winemakers on St. Martin’s Day to sample the new wine and decide whether to extend their contract with the winemaker for another year. In addition, roast goose with sauerkraut and cakes was served.

And why are gooses roasted on St. Martin’s Day?

According to the legend, gooses interrupted St. Martin while he was preaching and they are now being punished on the roasting-pan.