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Costly Wine in India with Price List: Most Expensive Picks

Tanisha Agarwal

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September 18, 2025

Costly Wine in India with Price List: Most Expensive Picks

The Indian wine market has matured rapidly, with enthusiasts moving beyond everyday bottles to rare, luxury vintages. Taxes, import duties, and limited supply make wines significantly more expensive here than in their countries of origin. Delhi and Maharashtra – two of the largest wine markets – often showcase the stark difference state excise policies can create. From legendary Bordeaux estates like Château Lafite Rothschild to Italian icons such as Masseto and Ornellaia, India now offers connoisseurs access to some of the world’s finest bottles. Here’s a detailed look at costly wine in India with price comparison between Delhi and Maharashtra.

Why Wine Costs Differ In India

  • State excise policies: Maharashtra and Delhi impose different excise and retail MRP rules, directly impacting the cost of the same bottle.
  • Import duties: High customs duties make imported wines significantly pricier than in Europe or the US.
  • Limited availability: Many ultra-premium wines are sold via select importers or duty-free outlets in Delhi, whereas Mumbai retailers often list MRPs openly.
  • Vintage variations: Older vintages or special editions command much higher prices than recent releases.

Top 10 Costly Wines in India (Maharashtra Prices)

Rank

Wine (750 ml)

Maharashtra (Mumbai Retail MRP)

Delhi (Retail / Duty-Free Availability)

1

Château Lafite Rothschild

INR 4,75,000 

Rare in Delhi retail; mostly via importers/duty-free; price varies by vintage

2

Masseto (Tenuta dell’Ornellaia)

INR 4,05,000 

Limited Delhi availability; often importer-only

3

Opus One (Napa Valley)

INR 1,95,000 

Delhi availability is mainly via duty-free retail listings scarce

4

Le Petit Cheval (St-Émilion)

INR 98,100 

Specialist Delhi shops on request

5

Ornellaia – Solaria

INR 87,500 

Not regularly listed in Delhi; vintage-specific imports

6

Sassicaia (Bolgheri, Italy)

~INR 38,000 (Mumbai listing)

Delhi availability inconsistent

1. Château Lafite Rothschild

A Bordeaux First Growth and a global symbol of fine wine, Lafite is admired for elegance, finesse, and incredible aging potential. Its prestige, history, and rarity make it one of the highest cost wines in India and a collector’s favorite.

2. Masseto (Tenuta dell’Ornellaia)

Often dubbed the “Pétrus of Italy,” this pure Merlot delivers rich fruit, silky tannins, and depth. Its cult status and small production volumes make it one of the most luxurious wines in India.

3. Opus One (Napa Valley)

Born from a collaboration between Robert Mondavi and Baron Philippe de Rothschild, it blends Old World elegance with New World power. Renowned for structure and balance, Opus One remains one of the most coveted Napa reds in India.

4. Le Petit Cheval (St-Émilion)

The second wine of Château Cheval Blanc, it offers a more approachable yet refined Bordeaux profile. Valued for its accessibility without losing prestige, it is a favorite among enthusiasts seeking pedigree at lower volumes.

5. Ornellaia – Solaria

A leading Super Tuscan, Ornellaia is known for richness, complexity, and a harmonious blend of Cabernet and Merlot. Its reputation as a collectible vintage wine adds to its appeal among Indian buyers.

6. Sassicaia (Bolgheri, Italy)

The pioneer of the Super Tuscan movement, Sassicaia delivers layered aromas, refined tannins, and exceptional balance. Its historic status and cult following make it a must-have in serious wine collections.

Summing Up

The most costly wine in India can reach up to INR 4–5 lakh per bottle, with Mumbai listings often more transparent than Delhi due to excise and retail structures. While Delhi relies heavily on specialist importers and duty-free channels, Maharashtra offers clearer MRPs through established retailers. From Bordeaux legends to Italian Super Tuscans and cult Napa wines, the highest cost wines in India reflect both luxury demand and taxation realities. For collectors, knowing where to buy – Delhi or Maharashtra – can make a significant difference in both access and price.

FAQs

Which Is The No. 1 Wine Brand In India?

Sula Vineyards is India’s largest and most popular wine brand.

Which Wine Is Luxury In India?

Luxury wines include Château Lafite, Masseto, Ornellaia, Opus One, and Penfolds.

How Much Is 750 ml Of Wine In India?

Anywhere from INR 700 for entry-level bottles to several lakhs for ultra-premium imports.

Who Is The King Of Wine In India?

Sula Vineyards is often called the king of Indian wines due to its dominance in production and sales.

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