The last decade has paved the way for Wine tourism in India. Today, there are numerous vineyards scattered across the country, some settled in the west plains of Maharashtra, some in the hilly regions of Karnataka. These vineyards are not only known for their range of classic reds and whites, but also for their unique variety of rosé, sparkling and dessert wines. While holidaying at these charming vineyards, you can explore the spectacular estates set amid the lush landscapes and take tours of the cellars, often escorted by an expert guide who explains the history and culture of wine produced in that region. This is always followed by sampling the wines with gourmet food pairings featuring local cuisine.These are our top picks where you can poke the cork, pour the wine and sniff, swirl and sip!
Sula Vineyards: Nashik, Maharashtra
Image Courtesy: @sula_vineyards (Instagram)
Spread across 1800 acres in India’s biggest wine region, Sula was the first in India to plant varietals of the Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc. Also known for introducing local varieties of Riesling and Zinfandel through sustainable viticulture, the expansive vine-garden provides the perfect backdrop for an intimate outdoor picnic followed by a luxurious vineyard tour and tasting. In addition, the vineyard has two restaurants open to visitors, operates a luxury villa called Beyond, and a resort— the Source at Sula, complete with tastefully-decorated rooms, individual tree- houses, gymnasium, spa, and an infinity pool.
Visit: sulawines.com
Grover Zampa Vineyards: Nandi Hills, Karnataka
Image Courtesy: @groverzampa (Instagram)
Nestled in the foothills of Nandi, 40 kilometers toward the north of Bangalore and stretching over 410 acres lies a region that has emerged as a rich wine producing area. With abundant green hillsides and miles of forestland, Grover Zampa Vineyards offer tranquil surroundings, a rich history and beautiful panoramas to the travellers. The region’s limestone abundant soil gives their grape a distinctive, earthy, rich aromatic complexity which makes their wine so special. They grow grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, Clairette and Chardonnay.Though there’s no accommodation available within the estate, the wine tasting coupled with a charming tour of the winery and barrel room makes it one of the most popular destinations for wine lovers.
Visit: www.groverzampa.in
Fratelli: Akluj, Maharashtra
Image Courtesy: @fratellinwines (Instagram)
Spend your weekend riding a bicycle around the wine gardens, educating yourself on wine making, and driving around the west countryside on an ATV. Each visit/stay at Fratelli’s vineyards includes a complimentary wine tasting, one can also opt for more specific wine-tasting sessions at an additional cost that concentrate on just red wines, white wines, or rosé blends. For the more experienced wine lovers, the Sette Masterclass is perfect. Accommodation at Fratelli Vineyards offers a very intimate setting - there are 4 rooms, a large dining room, common kitchen, and lounge overlooking acres of vineyards. Their speciality is home-cooked Italian food with an Indian menu as well.
Visit: www.fratelliwines.in
KRSMA Estates: Hampi, Karnataka
Image Courtesy: @krsmaestates (Instagram)
Located near an UNESCO World Heritage Site, the expansive wine gardens are a crowd pleaser, especially if you love history. The range of wines available here are all produced from single varietals. Only a limited number of bottles are produced, and the team at KRSMA believes in letting the grapes showcase their organic natural complex taste, thus do not follow a certain recipe. This estate is not open for walk-ins but one can book private day tours upon request.
Visit: krsmaestates.com
York Winery: Nasik, Maharashtra
Image Courtesy: @yorkwinery (Instagram)
Located 20 minutes from the heart of Nashik City, the state-of- the-art winery presents a breath-taking view of the tranquil expanse of the Gangapur dam backwaters. Enjoy an immersive guided tour of the facility followed by a wine tasting session that is fit for royalty. They offer a wide range of blends, their speciality being the Chardonnay with just the right hint of oak.In addition to the tasting room, the vineyard also hosts a restaurant—the Cellar Door that serves Indian food cooked in North Indian and local Maharashtrian spices. Their food menu is specially crafted with an aim to break the myth that Indian food does not pair well with wines.
Visit: www.yorkwinery.com