The Australian wine industry recently played host to an exclusive tasting event in Sydney and Adelaide, where a curated guest list of 50 industry insiders gathered to sample the best of India’s emerging wine scene. The event showcased a diverse range of wines, including crisp sparklings, robust reds, aromatic meads, and innovative fruit-led pours. The Indian wine industry is a niche product, classified as a “New Emerging” market by international standards. Despite centuries of wine consumption in the country, modern international standards classify India as a market that has only recently been introduced to the domestic market but shows great potential for success.
Major Wine Producing Regions
The major wine producing regions in India include Nashik, Pune, and Bangalore. These regions are home to up-and-coming producers who harvest, crush, and ferment a variety of grapes, including rosé, chardonnay, and shiraz. More experimental products, such as sweet strawberry wine and mead, are also being made, with bottles hitting shelves at affordable prices tailored to middle-class families. Some of the notable Indian wines featured at the event included the Reveilo Grilo, a white wine, and the Reveilo Nero D’Avola, a red. These wines showcased a spirited, spicy nose that stirred the senses, unfolding into a vibrant, flavorful experience on the palate. Retailing at Rs 1200-1400, these wines would pair well with popular Indian dishes such as paneer, samosa, and chutney, or chicken tikka.
Support from Australia
The event was presented in association with the Consulate General of India and the India’s Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). Australia has elected to support India’s growing wine market, with the two nations’ Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) including a “Joint Dialogue on Wine”. This agreement aims to promote mutual recognition of standards, joint marketing opportunities, and technical collaboration between the two countries. India already imports most of its wine from Australia, and with the aid of Australian experts, the future of wine from India is looking promising.
Indian Wine Market Potential
The Indian wine market is expected to grow in the future, with the sector projected to reach significant milestones. The market is expected to increase in size, driven by the growing demand for premium and affordable wines. The market is also expected to become more diverse, with a wider range of wine styles and grape varieties being produced.
Wine from Moonshine
Moonshine, the first meadery in India and in Asia, was represented at the event. The meadery’s wine, known for its sweet and sugary taste, was a hit among the attendees. The meadery’s hip bottle label and unique flavor profile made it stand out from other wines on the night.
Demystifying Wines
Indian wine makers believe that wines can capture both younger and more mature audiences. They aim to demystify wines and make them more approachable to a wider range of consumers. They are also experimenting with new wine styles and grape varieties to appeal to different palates.
The Future of Indian Wine
The Indian wine industry is on the rise, with numerous producers entering the market. Prominent names include the Sula and Grover Zampa vineyards, Alurra, Talisva Fruit Winery, and SamAgri. The industry is expected to continue growing, with new producers entering the market and existing ones expanding their operations. The future of Indian wine is looking bright, with a range of unique flavors and drops to suit every palette. The Indian wine market is one to watch out for, with significant milestones expected in the coming years.
Wine and Food Pairing
Indian wines pair well with spicy food, as Ashwin Rodrigues, secretary of the Wine Growers Association of India, pointed out. The acidic backbone of Indian wines cuts through the fat and grease of Indian cooking, making them a great match for popular dishes such as paneer, samosa, and chutney.
Conclusion
The emerging Indian wine industry is a niche product that is gaining recognition globally. With its unique flavors and diverse range of wines, the industry is expected to continue growing in the future. The Indian wine market has significant potential, and with the support of Australian experts and the two nations’ Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement, the future of wine from India is looking promising.
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