Wine is a moderately strong and coloured alcoholic beverage, which is loved across the world and consumed by billions of people every year. With its origins in the Caucasus back in 6000BC, wine has been the go-to alcoholic beverage for the royals and common folk alike for millennia. The name “wine” is derived from the Proto-Germanic word “winam” which loosely translates into a beverage made from grapes. Wine has been part of popular culture as early as 4500BC in Ancient Greece and has gone on to become the alcoholic drink of choice for billions across the globe.
The best part about wine is that you can get good options and a good quantity of the drink on a budget, especially in India, which wasn’t generally the case a few years ago. In case you are on the lookout for a nice wine to chill for a cosy dinner with your loved ones, we have curated a list of the best wine brands available in India – including international and Indian brands. But before that…
What is Wine?
As discussed, wine is an alcoholic drink that has its origins in ancient Georgia in 6000BC, Persia in 5000BC, and Italy in 4000BC. It saw its first cultural reference in Homer’s writings back in 800BC. Since then, it has travelled across the globe and is loved by millions of alcohol lovers.
Certain variants of wine have a strict composition and regional criteria. However largely, wine is made from grapes matured for a few months or years, with water being the main component. You get red, white, rose, champagne, vintage, and sparkling wines across popular brands.
How to Drink Wine?
Wine is generally consumed neat or with a splash of fruit juice or soft drink, due to the low alcohol content and mellow taste. There are certainly popular wine cocktails consumed across the globe.
Some of the most legendary wine cocktails include Sangria, Mimosa, and Spritzer. You can experiment with these at house parties or when you are chilling at a club or bar. There is no real purist way to drink wine, and you can enjoy it in a number of ways.
What if I don’t drink wine?
If you are a teetotaller, we have something exciting for you. There are several great 100% non-alcoholic drink brands to choose from. They offer a robust flavour and give you a chance to enjoy yourself with your friends without feeling left out.
How Do We Pick the Best Wine Brands In India?
Wine is one of the lightest yet highly complex alcohol types. It does have various elements including alcohol content, ingredients, and price. We have curated a list of the best wine brands that cater to almost every kind of drinker out there. Here you can also check the best rum brands & list of top gin brands in India.
List of Top 16 Indian Wine Brands in India For 2023
1. Sula
Sula is a name synonymous with Indian wines. Having taken Indian-produced wines mainstream, Sula focuses on producing several variants of wine to cater to a growing wine appreciation club in India. The brand has several affordable options that are created in the wine capital of India, Nashik.
Notable Features
- Sula sells red, white, rose, and sparkling wines at affordable price points.
- The Sula Vineyards in Nashik are equipped with a resort and winery experience tours.
- Apart from Indian wines, Sula also sells a plethora of options in the international market.
Country of origin: India
Latest Price (in Gurgaon, Haryana): 750ml at Rs 600
2. Grover Zampa
Grover Sampa is another of the legendary wine brands from India that have marked a substantial presence in the domestic and international markets. The brand is known to run the oldest existing winery in India.
Notable Features
- The oldest running winery in India is owned by Grover Zampa, operational since 1988.
- The brand has been set up by Kanwal Grover, who is fondly known as the pioneer of Indian wines.
- Due to an elevation of 1,000 metres above sea level, the grape cultivation at the winery is unique.
Country of origin: India
Latest Price (in Gurgaon, Haryana): 750ml at Rs 500
3. Fratelli
Set in a 240-acre vineyard in the region of Akuj in Maharashtra, Fratelli Wines is a major Indian wine brand that sells wines across varieties including red, white, sparkling, rose, and more.
Notable Features
- Fratelli wines started selling in 2007, and have been an integral part of India’s growing wine demand.
- The vineyards combine terroir, climate, and crop to create a unique Indian wine flavour profile.
- Fratelli Wines is also behind the launch of TILT, a widely available canned wine cocktail brand.
Country of origin: India
Latest Price (in Gurgaon, Haryana): 750ml at Rs 650
4. KRSMA
KRSMA is a one-of-its-kind Indian wine brand that is based out of Hampi in Karnataka. The brand has been making wines since 2008, and it is named after Krishna (Kris) and Uma (Ma), the first names of the founders of the winery.
Notable Features
- KRSMA sells the Cabernet Sauvignon as its flagship red wine. This is also its top-selling bottle.
- KRSMA Estates has featured on the World’s Best Vineyards 2021 list twice.
- KRSMA sells an exclusive version of its Sangiovese in Bengaluru.
Country of origin: India
Latest Price (in Gurgaon, Haryana): 750ml at N/A
5. Big Banyan
KRSMA is a one-of-its-kind Indian wine brand that is based out of Hampi in Karnataka. The brand has been making wines since 2008, and it is named after Krishna (Kris) and Uma (Ma), the first names of the founders of the winery.
Notable Features
- KRSMA sells the Cabernet Sauvignon as its flagship red wine. This is also its top-selling bottle.
- KRSMA Estates has featured on the World’s Best Vineyards 2021 list twice.
- KRSMA sells an exclusive version of its Sangiovese in Bengaluru.
Country of origin: India
Latest Price (in Gurgaon, Haryana): 750ml at N/A
6. Rhythm
Rhythm is a mainstream Indian wine brand that focuses on fruit wines. The brand, much like the other top brands, is located in Maharashtra, albeit located on the outskirts of Pune.
Notable Features
- The brand produces pineapple, strawberry, kiwi, peach, and plum wines.
- All fruit wines created at Rhythm are created keeping in mind the Indian palate.
- The wines are made from fruits suited to the local climate and soil conditions.
Country of origin: India
Latest Price (in Gurgaon, Haryana): 750ml at N/A
7. Four Seasons
This Bengaluru-based wine brand is part of United Spirits, one of the biggest alcohol producers in India. The brand produces wines under two bottling names – Four Seasons and Zinzi.
Notable Features
- The winery is located in Baramati, near Pune, and has a 1 million annual case capacity.
- The brand sells three red, three white, and one rose wine varieties.
- The vineyards are currently located in a 50-acre plot but the brand is expected to expand to over 300 in the coming months.
Country of origin: India
Latest Price (in Gurgaon, Haryana): 750ml at Rs 1,000
8. York
York Wines is a highly awarded India-based wine brand. Founded with a mission to create the coolest wines in the country, York Wines offers several varieties across grape types to its customers.
Notable Features
- York winery is located in a 9-acre vineyard in Nashik, the wine capital of India.
- The location allows for great terroir, good drainage, and a superior grape crop.
- The winery has an extensive experience tour and tasting sessions that guarantee a superb experience at affordable prices.
Country of origin: India
Latest Price (in Gurgaon, Haryana): 750ml at N/A
9. Charosa
Another popular Indian wine brand from Nashik, Charosa is located in the Mecca of wines, the Dindori-Niphad-Satara region. Set on 230 acres, the vineyard offers the right climate and landscape to bring about the finest flavours that are fruit-forward in nature.
Notable Features
- This is a relatively new wine brand from India, set up in 2014.
- The location allows for a great terroir, good drainage, and a superior grape crop.
- The winery has an extensive experience tour and tasting sessions that guarantee a superb experience at affordable prices.
Country of origin: India
Latest Price (in Gurgaon, Haryana): 750ml at N/A
10. Vallonne
Vallonne is a boutique wine brand that is located in Igatpuri, a town situated 160km from Mumbai. The brand offers a plush resort with rooms and tours at its winery for those interested in an immersive experience.
Notable Features
- Vallonne was established as the country’s first boutique winery in 2009.
- The brand produces reserve red, white, rose, and dessert wines.
- – The Vallonné rosé is the only Indian rosé made with Cabernet Sauvignon.
Country of origin: India
Latest Price (in Gurgaon, Haryana): 750ml at N/A
Recommended For You: As you are reading about wine brands, you might also like our other blog which is featuring some of the top liquor brands that are available in India. Do give it a read.
Best International Wine Brands
11. Yellow Tail
Yellow Tail is a family-owned winery located in the small town of Yenda, Australia. It is owned and operated by the Casella family, which has been creating world-class wines for six generations.
Notable Features
- The journey of Yellow Tail started in 1957 when founders from the Casella family came to Austraila from Sicily.
- The Yellow Tail is known for its wacky and unique packaging, which catches buyers’ eyes instantly.
- Yellow Tail also produces vegan wines, a rare feat in the alcohol industry.
Country of origin: Australia
Latest Price (in Gurgaon, Haryana): 750ml at Rs 6,100
12. Changyu
Changyu is the oldest running and most well-known winery brand from China. From 2000 plants bought from the US back in 1892, the wine brand has now graduated onto 17 million annual case sales.
Notable Features
- Changyu produces a unique ice wine that offers a plethora of flavours and textures.
- The brand has several wineries located in China, new Zealand, Canada, and Italy.
- Its offerings include Chateau Moser XV, Chateau ChanYu Baron Balboa, and Chateau ChanYu Rena
Country of origin: China
Latest Price (in Gurgaon, Haryana): 750ml at N/A
13. Moet & Chandon
Moet & Chandon is probably the most well known name in luxury wines, known especially for their genuine champagnes. In fact, Moet & Chandon is one of the biggest producers of champagne in the world.
Notable Features
- The brand was founded in 1743 and has been synonymous with luxury wines ever since.
- The brand now owns 2,900 acres of vineyards that have the capacity to produce 28 million champagne bottles.
- Its best known label, Dom Perignon, is named for the Benedictine monk once known as the “Father of Champagne”.
Country of origin: France
Latest Price (in Gurgaon, Haryana): 750ml at Rs 6,000
14. Lafite Rothschild
The famed Rothschild family owns and operates the Château Lafite Rothschild wine estate, which is one of only four Bordeaux estates to be awarded First Growth status back in 1855. It is now known as one of the biggest producers of expensive red wines.
Notable Features
- The brand was founded in the early 18th century after Nicolas-Alexandre, marquis de Ségur perfected the art of fermenting grapes to create wine.
- One of the most expensive wine bottles ever sold is an 1869 Chateau Lafite-Rothschild. Three were sold for HK$1.8M ($232,692) each.
- The average price of a Lafite Rothschild is around $911, making it one of the most expensive mainstream wines in the world.
Country of origin: France
Latest Price (in Gurgaon, Haryana): 750ml at N/A
15. Penfolds
The Penfolds wine company was established in 1844 at Magill Estate in South Australia after founders Dr Christopher and Mary Penfold decided to open up a vineyard after exploring sherries and fortified wines. It is undoubtedly South Australia’s largest and one of the country’s largest wine brands.
Notable Features
- The 2008 Grange from the brand has received a perfect score from two of the biggest review magazines in the world.
- Penfolds has released experimental bottles like 12 handcrafted ampoules of the rare 2004 Kalimna Block Cabernet Sauvignon.
- The brand produces wines in Adelaide Hills, Barossa Valley, Eden Valley, Napa Valley, and several other regions across the world.
Country of origin: Australia
Latest Price (in Gurgaon, Haryana): 750ml at Rs 2,450
16. Louis Roederer
Louis Roederer is one of the only few family-owned independent champagne houses that still exist today. Founded in 1776, the brand now sells over 3.5 million bottles of wine across 100 countries globally.
Notable Features
- Louis Roederer was nominated by Tsar Nicholas II as official wine supplier to the Imperial Court of Russia back in the 19th century.
- The Brut Premier is the flagship wine offering from the brand, accounting for 75-80% of the total annual sales.
- Apart from that, it produces names like Carte Blanche, Blanc de Blancs Vintage, Cuvee De Prestige, and more.
Country of origin: France
Latest Price (in Gurgaon, Haryana): 750ml at Rs 3,000
Best Wine Brands in India With Price List
Best Wine Brands | Price 750ml* (Gurugram, Haryana) |
---|---|
Sula | Starting at Rs 600 |
Grover Zampa | Starting at Rs 500 |
Fratelli | Starting at Rs 650 |
KRSMA | N/A |
Big Banyan | N/A |
Rhythm | N/A |
Four Seasons | Starting at Rs 1,000 |
York | N/A |
Charosa | N/A |
Vallonne | N/A |
Yellow Tail | Starting at Rs 6,100 |
Changyu | N/A |
Moet & Chandon | Starting at Rs 6,000 |
Lafite Rothschild | N/A |
Penfolds | Starting at Rs 2,450 |
Louis Roederer | Starting at Rs 3,000 |
*Prices are subject to change
In addition to this we also recommend you to check this amazing list of top beer brands in India.
Final Word
Wines are some of the most enjoyed spirits in the world. With several varieties and types of grains, we have curated a list of the absolute best wine brands in India. While Sula, Moet & Chandon, and Yellow Tail are our absolute party favourites, you can go through the list and take your pick depending on the budget, region, and taste profile mentioned.
FAQs
Which brand is best for wine?
Moet & Chandon and Lafite Rothschild are some of the finest luxury wine brands available in India. However, there usually is no best wine brand because each enthusiast has a different palate that appreciates different taste profiles. We recommend you try some of our top options and make your choice.
What brand of wine is most popular?
In India, Sula is the most popular wine brand across categories of red, white, rose, sparkling, and more. Yellow Tail and Penfolds are some of the world’s most popular wine brands selling millions of cases each year.
Which wine is good for health?
Red wines are considered to be good for heart health when taken in moderation. However, like with every alcohol, it is best to consume in moderation and not indulge in overconsumption as that can be harmful to your health.
Does wine have side effects?
Yes, overconsumption of wine can have side effects such as drowsiness, increased blood pressure, vomiting, delusion, and dipping blood sugar. It is best to consume wine in moderation.
Does wine expire?
Yes, wine can expire due to the low alcohol content. However, don’t worry; most popular red, white, and cooking wines can last 1-5 years when unopened. Expensive fine wines can last up to 20 years when kept unopened in a cool and dark place.
Which wine has no alcohol?
Non-alcoholic wines, made from fruits, have 0% alcohol. They provide the flavour profile of a good wine without the side effects of alcohol.