A world of Indian wines that is beginning to consolidate itself on the world stage
Although India may not be the name that comes to mind when thinking about wine, its winemakers take advantage of its enormous diversity of climates and terroirs to create unique vintages.
Most Indian vineyards are located in Maharashtra and Karnataka, on the country's west coast. Even within these two states, there is a huge variety of environments and soils that influence the flavor of the wines. Grape varieties like Shiraz, Chenin Blanc, and Sangiovese are well-known, but these Western varieties take on a new life in Indian soil.
There are hundreds of bottles to choose from, but these ten suggestions offer a good starting point. Each one is best enjoyed with a dish that complements it perfectly.
The Grover Zampa Vijay Amritraj Blanca Collection features apricot and honey notes that pair well with the plum glaze on a pork chop. Its body allows it to complement both the meat and a flavorful coleslaw. Meanwhile, the Myne Chenin Blanc is a perfect match for crispy spring rolls filled with shrimp and pork: its lively acidity balances the fragrant mix, and the wine's tropical notes complement the aromatic sauce.
The Grillo grape, one of Sicily's most famous varieties, always pairs well with seafood, and the Reveilo Grillo, made in Nashik, complements stuffed squid bursting with Sicilian flavors. Nashik has a climate and terroir similar to the island's, making it a good example of how Indian viticulture pairs with European varieties. The Charosa Reserve Tempranillo, of Spanish origin, shines in a succulent roast lamb with fruity, leathery, and surprisingly smoky flavors that complement the meat's rich taste.
Fratelli Sangiovese is the perfect partner for a good steak and is ideal for larger cuts. With a Denver steak and its spicy tomato sauce, its elegant tannins and acidity don't overpower the sauce. Grover Zampa La Reserva Syrah Garnacha, a deep, full-bodied red with notes of black cherry, vanilla, and a spicy finish, pairs well with an unusual curry of venison, beets, and plenty of black pepper.
The Fratelli M/S Rosé, with its sweet red fruit flavors, contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the burrata and avocado in a Caprese salad, and enhances the acidity of the tomatoes. The Fratelli Gran Cuvée Brut, made using the traditional method, like French Champagne, counteracts the richness of fried chicken: its yeasty and bready notes are not masked by the marinade or mayonnaise.
Strawberry Rhythm is made with strawberries from the Mahabaleshwar orchards in the Western Ghats, and its initial pure juice flavor gives way to greater complexity. It pairs best with a creamy Middle Eastern dessert with strawberry jelly. Reveilo Late Harvest Chenin Blanc, with its honeyed sweetness and notes of raisins, dried figs, and nuts, complements the intense mango flavor of a cheesecake, and its cream cheese base prevents it from being cloying.