When you think about wines, the first place that comes to mind is probably Italy or France. However, you’ll be surprised to know that India is emerging as a hub for unique fruit-based wines. From peach and apple wines crafted in the serene Himalayan hills to exotic blends made from jamun and lychee, Indian wineries are offering a diverse selection that deserves attention. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just looking to try something different, here’s a list of seven distinctive wines in India, along with their approximate price range.
Peach Wine
Where to Find: Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh
Price Range: ₹800 – ₹1,500 per bottle
A sweet and aromatic delight, peach wine is a specialty of the Himalayan regions, particularly in Uttarakhand, which is India’s largest peach producer. Made from locally sourced peaches, this wine offers a refreshing fruity taste with floral undertones. It pairs well with light salads, cheese platters, and grilled seafood. However, commercial availability is limited, so exploring local markets is the best way to find it.
Apple Wine
Where to Find: Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Uttarakhand
Price Range: ₹700 – ₹1,400 per bottle
Apple wine is an exquisite creation from India’s northern states, particularly famous in Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir, which are major apple-producing regions. With its crisp and mildly sweet flavor, this wine makes for a perfect summer drink. It complements spicy Indian dishes and soft cheeses beautifully. Some local wineries and markets in these regions offer authentic apple wine.
Jamun Wine
Where to Find: Maharashtra, Karnataka
Price Range: ₹1,000 – ₹2,000 per bottle
Jamun wine is a deep, rich, and slightly tangy wine made from the black plum (jamun) fruit. Maharashtra-based Rhythm Winery is one of the well-known brands producing this unique wine, offering variants like Jamun Wine and Jamun Lite Wine. Packed with antioxidants, it has a unique balance of sweetness and tartness, making it an excellent pairing for grilled meats and dark chocolate desserts.
Lychee Wine
Where to Find: Bihar, West Bengal, Uttarakhand
Price Range: ₹900 – ₹1,600 per bottle
Lychee wine is an exotic and fragrant wine with floral and citrusy notes. Bihar is the leading producer of lychee in India, making it a potential hotspot for lychee-based wines. However, large-scale commercial production of lychee wine in India is still limited. If available, it pairs well with light Asian cuisine, sushi, or even spicy Indian curries.
Mango Wine
Where to Find: Maharashtra, Goa
Price Range: ₹850 – ₹1,700 per bottle
A true tropical indulgence, mango wine is slightly sweet, with a luscious, fruity flavor that captures the essence of India’s favorite summer fruit. Brands like Hill Zill Wines have introduced Alphonso mango-flavored wine, available in Maharashtra and Goa. It pairs exceptionally well with spicy foods, grilled chicken, and creamy desserts.
Strawberry Wine
Where to Find: Mahabaleshwar, Karnataka
Price Range: ₹900 – ₹1,800 per bottle
Strawberry wine, crafted in regions like Mahabaleshwar, is a delightful drink with a naturally sweet yet slightly tangy profile. Hill Zill Wines offers strawberry-flavored wines, reflecting the region’s significant strawberry cultivation. Its vibrant aroma and flavor make it a perfect match for chocolate-based desserts and mild cheeses.
Rose Wine (Gulab Wine)
Where to Find: Rajasthan, Uttarakhand
Price Range: ₹1,000 – ₹2,200 per bottle
Made from fresh rose petals, gulab wine offers an elegant floral aroma with a subtle sweetness. While rose cultivation is significant in Rajasthan and Uttarakhand, commercial rose wine production in these regions is not widely documented. If available, it is often enjoyed as a refreshing aperitif and pairs well with mild kebabs, paneer dishes, and desserts like gulab jamun.
Summing Up
India boasts a fascinating variety of fruit-based wines, but their commercial availability varies. Some states have embraced fruit wine production, while in others, it remains niche. Whether you prefer something sweet, tangy, or floral, there’s a distinctive wine waiting to tantalize your taste buds. If you’re keen to try these unique wines, exploring local markets and wineries in the mentioned regions can help you find the best picks!
