Imagine a world where the complexity of wine is not just understood but celebrated, where vineyards are not merely places of production but destinations for exploration. This is the vision that Sonal Holland, India’s first and only Master of Wine, has turned into a reality over the past 16 years. Her journey, which began with a passion for the grape, has led to a seismic shift in how wine is perceived, consumed, and appreciated in India. Today, as we explore the burgeoning interest in wine and vineyard tourism in India, we delve into Sonal’s insights on this growing trend, the preferences shaping the market, and her pioneering role in wine education and tourism.

The Growing Thirst for Wine and Vineyard Experiences

The Indian palette has evolved, craving not just the taste of wine but the experience that surrounds it. Sonal Holland sees this shift as a reflection of India’s openness to global wine options, suitable for a variety of occasions, and the desire to explore wine beyond the bottle. Vineyard tourism, particularly in the Karnataka region, with Bengaluru at its heart, is on the rise. This interest is fueled by the region’s moderate climate and the influx of IT professionals and expatriates seeking new leisure activities. Sonal’s insights reveal a preference for white wines and light-bodied red wines in India’s tropical climate, challenging the myth that all wines improve with age by stating that 95% of wines are best enjoyed young.

Educating India on Wine

In 2009, Sonal founded the Sonal Holland Wine Academy, with a mission to make world-class wine education accessible to all. Aligning with global wine education standards, the academy has become a leading institution over the past 14 years. Sonal’s efforts to demystify wine and tailor the education to Indian sensibilities have paved the way for a deeper appreciation and understanding of wine in India. Her guide to pairing wine with Indian food emphasizes the importance of matching the wine’s body, flavor intensity, and the dish’s spices and sauces, further enriching India’s culinary landscape.

Vineyards Worth the Visit

Sonal Holland’s recommendations for vineyard visits in Karnataka highlight the region’s growing wine culture. These vineyards offer more than just wine tastings; they provide immersive experiences that include tours of the vineyards, insights into the wine-making process, and the opportunity to savor wines in the very locale they were produced. This emphasis on experience over mere consumption is reshaping India’s wine industry, making it more accessible and appealing to a broader audience. With Sonal Holland at the forefront of this movement, the future of wine in India looks not only promising but vibrant.

As we raise our glasses to Sonal Holland and the transformative journey she has led, it’s clear that her influence extends beyond the bottle. It’s a testament to the power of passion, education, and the belief that wine, in all its complexity, is a joy to be shared. India’s wine culture, once nascent, now flourishes, inviting enthusiasts and novices alike to explore, learn, and, most importantly, enjoy.

Source

https://bnnbreaking.com/world/india/sonal-holland-shaping-indias-wine-culture-and-vineyard-tourism