India’s wine industry has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past two decades, evolving from a nascent market to producing world-class wines that compete on international stages. What began with pioneering wineries like Sula Vineyards in 1999 has blossomed into a thriving industry featuring over 180 international awards and recognition from prestigious competitions worldwide. The country’s diverse terroir, spanning from Maharashtra’s Nashik Valley to Karnataka’s Hampi Hills, creates unique microclimates perfect for cultivating both international and indigenous grape varieties.
Today’s Indian wines showcase exceptional craftsmanship, with the four most significant varieties being Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Shiraz. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or curious beginner, these carefully selected Indian wines represent the pinnacle of the subcontinent’s winemaking excellence, offering flavors that beautifully complement both international cuisine and traditional Indian dishes.
Premium Red Wines That Define Excellence
Sula Vineyards – The Pioneer’s Pride
Sula Vineyards stands as India’s most celebrated wine brand, consistently ranking at the top of quality Indian wines. Their Sula Rasa Shiraz exemplifies the perfect marriage of international winemaking techniques with local terroir, featuring hints of chocolate, black pepper, clove, and tobacco on the finish. The winery’s Dindori Reserve Shiraz offers a full-bodied experience with blackberry and spice aromas, aged in oak for a smooth finish. For those seeking versatility, the Shiraz-Cabernet blend remains one of India’s best-selling red wines, comprising 70% Shiraz and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon with notes of blackberries, black plums, and ripe cherries.
Grover Zampa La Réserve – Award-Winning Excellence
This Bronze winner at the 2016 Decanter Asia Wine Awards represents the darling of India’s wine scene. The La Réserve is a full-bodied blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz, featuring notes of chocolate and dark berries that pair exceptionally well with lamb biryani and spiced Indian cuisine. The wine’s ability to hold its own against heat and spice makes it a perfect companion for traditional Indian dishes.
KRSMA Estates Cabernet Sauvignon – Karnataka’s Gem
Situated in the scenic Hampi Hills, KRSMA Estates produces a Cabernet Sauvignon that showcases the classic expression of this noble grape variety. The 2017 vintage offers attractive notes of red cherries, pomegranates, and blackberries with well-balanced tannins, aged for 14 months in French oak barrels. This wine can be cellared for up to 8 years and pairs beautifully with barbecued meats and roasted vegetables.
Exceptional White Wines and Unique Offerings
Top Indian Wines (Image via Getty)Fratelli J’NOON White – French Collaboration
From Maharashtra’s largest privately-owned single estate vineyard comes the J’NOON White, created in partnership with France’s third-largest wine conglomerate. This unique blend of Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc is aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, exhibiting green apple, white pear, lime, and lemongrass flavors. The wine’s boldness on the palate makes it an excellent companion for Indian curries and seafood.
Sula Chenin Blanc Reserve – The Crowd Favorite
As a tenacious stalwart of the Indian wine market, Sula’s Chenin Blanc Reserve features on wine menus across the subcontinent. This easy-drinking semi-dry white wine showcases vivid fruity notes and represents the versatility that suits the Indian palate perfectly.
Sparkling Wines and Special Selections
Sula Sparkling Shiraz – India’s First
Breaking new ground, Sula’s Sparkling Shiraz stands as India’s first and only sparkling red wine and a Gold Medal winner at the India Wine Awards. This innovative wine bursts with rich berry flavors, pomegranate, dark berries, spices, and smoke, made using the Prosecco method.
Grover Zampa Soirée Brut
For special occasions, this palatable sparkling wine offers the perfect sundowner experience, representing the growing sophistication of Indian sparkling wine production.
These exceptional Indian wines demonstrate the country’s rapid evolution in winemaking, offering wine enthusiasts an opportunity to explore unique flavors while supporting a thriving domestic industry that continues to gain international recognition.
