When you think of wine, you often think of regions like Bordeaux, Napa Valley or Tuscany. However, an emerging competitor in the world of winemaking is India. Nestled amidst lush landscapes and bathed in abundant sunshine, India’s vineyards are a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered by wine lovers around the world.
India has a tradition of more than 5,000 years of employment in the wine sector. According to many people, the Indian subcontinent is one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world. The ancient Vedic texts mention ‘Sura’, a fermented liquid believed to be wine. However, modern winemaking only really took off across the country in recent decades.
Ayan Nagpal, Managing Director of Agrocorp, said: “The wine sector in India is known for its diversity in grape varieties and winemaking technologies. Indian winemakers have skillfully blended local and foreign grape varieties to produce a wide variety of wines that appeal to a spectrum of bifurcated palates.”
In India, tradition and innovation come together to create wine. While some wineries use cutting-edge technology, others continue to use older, more conventional methods, such as aging wines in oak barrels. This variety of methods produces a range of wines, including powerful and robust red wines, in addition to crisp and refreshing white wines.
Exploring the culinary experience
Indian vineyards now offer not only a place to enjoy wine, but also a complete dining experience. “Many wineries have restaurants on site that serve delicious meals complemented by their wines. Indian spices and global culinary methods combine to create a culinary adventure that enhances the wine tasting experience. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dishes, including richly spiced and flavorful traditional Indian dishes and world dishes to match the wines. Indian vineyards take the tradition of food and wine pairing to new heights, delivering a pleasurable sensory experience,” adds Nagpal.
The future of Indian wine and vineyards
Nagpal believes that Indian wine and vineyards have a bright and exciting future ahead. India has made significant progress in the wine industry in recent decades, and this upward trend is expected to continue.
“India has a distinct advantage in producing a wide variety of wines due to the different terroirs and climates across the country. Winemakers are increasingly experimenting with different grape varieties and winemaking processes, creating wines that can compete on a global scale. It is expected that the Indian wine business will become better known abroad as it develops. There is still room for growth and expansion in both the domestic and foreign markets for Indian wines, which have already attracted attention for their high quality and distinctive flavor profiles,” Nagpal opines.
An intriguing element that is gaining more and more attention is the combination of Indian food with wine. Food and wine pairing experiences are becoming more complex and polished, adding to the overall appeal of Indian wines.
India’s vineyards are more than just locations for growing grapes and producing wine. They represent a passionate, adventurous and dedicated journey that has made India a thriving wine producing country. Every wine lover can find something new to discover and enjoy thanks to the diversity of terroirs, grape varieties and winemaking processes.
Vineyard life
Vineyard living is experiencing a surge in popularity among investors and travelers alike, marking a fascinating trend in the world of tourism and real estate. This emerging trend is driven by a deep appreciation for the beauty, culture and sophistication associated with vineyards, making it an attractive option for those seeking unique experiences and investments.
“The Vineyard, a pioneering real estate project in Bangalore, marks the pioneering emergence of India’s first Managed Vineyard Farm Community, built around the concept of having a ‘vineyard in the backyard’. For the first time in India, there is a curated community of like-minded people who aspire to own a piece of Karnataka’s wine region,” says Nagpal.
This is a unique farm experience, a place of tranquility, where you can immerse yourself in nature, spend time with loved ones, stimulate the soul, relieve pent-up stress and refresh the mind from the hardships of life. The project consists of a well-managed farm with a backyard vineyard, with high-quality and tailor-made services.
Another aspect of this trend is the rise of vineyard-themed luxury resorts. These resorts offer guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of viticulture, offering an authentic experience with wine tastings, tours of lush vineyards and the chance to witness the winemaking process firsthand. Such resorts often boast stunning architecture, luxurious accommodations and world-class dining options, making them a magnet for discerning travelers looking for a luxurious escape.
Whether you are a die-hard wine lover or simply interested in discovering the distinctive flavors of India, the vineyards in this great country offer a world of delights waiting to be opened and enjoyed. It asks you to raise a glass and toast the fascinating world of Indian wine as it takes you on a journey through different terroirs, grape varieties and winemaking techniques.
