Have you tried wine from India?
India’s affair with wine production goes back to the days of Indus Valley civilisation but it is only in the recent times that both consumption and production of wines in the country are experiencing an all-time high.
Given that wine tourism is slowly picking up in the country, we have curated a list that will help you explore some of these wineries and vineyards in India.
As more takers are developing a taste for these diverse wines, more makers setting up their wine estates. Some opted for the plains of Maharashtra while others settled in the hilly expanses of Karnataka. Given that wine tourism is slowly picking up in the country, we have curated a list that will help you explore some of these wineries and vineyards in India.
Sula Vineyards
Spread on a sprawling 3,000 acres land, India’s biggest, Sula Vineyards sits in the wine production central of India–Nashik. Known for producing wines through sustainable viticulture, the Sula Vineyards have many awards and accolades recognising their efforts and innovation altogether. The vineyard also operates a luxury resort called Beyond, India’s first vineyard resort, replete with tastefully-decorated rooms, restaurant, gymnasium, spa, and an infinity pool. February is the best time to visit Sula Vineyards as this is when the iconic Sula Fest, country’s biggest wine tour, is organised.
Fratelli Wines
Wine connoisseurs in India will toast to the iconic Fratelli Sette Reserve Red, India’s finest red wine, any given day. Ever wondered where this beauty takes shape? It is in the Fratelli Wines’ vineyards, which operates in three centres in India — Solapur, Garwar and Motewadi. All the regions are blessed with breathtaking landscapes and you would surely want to spend a few days sipping on some wine and soaking in the still life, away from all the hustle. You can also rent out the entire vineyard, for a suitable sum, obviously.
Grover Zampa Vineyards
Grover Zampa Vineyards operate two centres in India, one near Bengaluru in the scenic Nandi Hills of Raghunathapura and other, again in the wine capital of India — Nashik. The Grover Zampa Vineyards was established by the oldest viticulturists in India, Mr Kanwal Grover and Mr Georges Vesselle. You can learn about the winemaking process through their guided wine tour that happens in three different time slots during the day and sample some wine as well. The weather here is pleasant all year round, so you can visit any time of the year.
Soma Vineyards
Soma Vineyards is easily one of the most scenic vineyards of India and a pretty unique one at that. Bordered by the Makali Hill and Gundamagere Lake, it is one of the rare vineyards where plantations like coconut palms coexist with grapevines. Thanks to the scenic setup, it is also a popular weddings destination. The vineyard has recently started producing its own wines and offers a four-hour tour where you get to taste some of the most exclusive wines produced by the vineyard. A visit to Soma Vineyards will be one of the unique experiences for those exploring vineyards and wineries in India.
Four Seasons Vineyards
For those looking for some sophistication in their wine tours, the Four Seasons Vineyard is what you’re looking for. Nestled in the outskirts of Pune near Baramati, the majestic french chateau standing amongst the 50-acre expanse is a palatial structure that overlooks the Sahyadri valley. The winery offers tours from Monday through Saturday.
All images: Courtesy Instagram
This story first appeared on Travel and Leisure India