Over the past two decades, the quaint city of Nasik has become synonymous with the wine culture in the country. From Sula, Grover and the recently launched champagne makers Chandon, every major wine company has wineries in and around Nashik city. Most of these wine company are open to guests, offer wine tours and have wine bars with tasting sessions, so that you can upgrade your knowledge in wine affairs.
And while there are quite a few wine tours that you can take in and around the city, we have hand-picked five places that are guaranteed to help you understand the intricacies of winemaking in a more intricate and comprehensive manner.
1. Sula Vineyards: One of India’s most popular winery, Sula Vineyards had indeed come a long way since it started in 1999. With a market share of more than 70% in India, they have gained immense popularity for the global music festival SulaFest that brings together artists, performers and fans on a single platform for two days of music, food and of course wine. The company also offers a one day wine appreciation course on Thursday every week.
Wines Available: Sauvignon blanc, chenin blanc, rose, sparkling brut and rose, viognier, reisling, shiraz, merlot, zinfandel, cabernet sauvignon, syrah.
Timings: 10 AM - 10 PM {Sunday to Thursday}; 11 AM - 11 PM {Friday to Saturday}
Price: INR 350 for tour and tasting session
2. York Winery: Constructed in 2006, the York Winery is located close to Sula Vineyards and overlooks Gangapur Dam. With a focus on fruity and dry flavours as opposed to sweet wines, this place is gaining a lot of momentum and has recently won a lot of awards as well. The winery has a superb gold medal Reserve Shiraz, aged in oak, along with its new Arros reserve blend of shiraz and cabernet sauvignon that was released in 2014. This winery also has to its name York Sparkling Brut that was launched in the same year {2014} and is made from 100 per cent chenin blanc grapes. It also has an incredibly scenic and majestic tasting room and is indeed less commercialized than Sula, making it great for people who want to avoid a lot of crowd.
Wines Available: Sauvignon blanc, chenin blanc, rosé, shiraz, cabernet sauvignon
Timings: 12 PM - 10 PM {Sunday to Monday}
Price: INR 150-250 for tour and tasting session
3. Soma Vineyards: Located in the same area as Sula and York, Soma Vineyards is a relatively newer winery that has quickly emerged as another major winery. Opened in 2014, this boutique winery has interesting elements like CUlture Kitchen restaurant, amphitheatre, conference and wedding facility.
Wines Available: Shiraz, cabernet shiraz, rose, white wine blend, dessert wine, sparkling wine
Timings: 11.30 AM - 6.30 PM {Sunday to Monday}
Price: INR 200-400 for tour and tasting session
4. Vallonne: Located in the Sanjegaon district on the way to Nashik from Mumbai, this premium boutique winery is unique because it has brought the French Chateau experience to India, with its emphasis on french wine-making techniques and equipments.
Timings: 10 AM - 10 PM {Sunday to Monday}
Wine: Malbec, Rose, Vin De Passerillage and Anokhee Cabernet Sauvignon
5, Grover Zampa: Formerly known as Vallee du Vin, Grover is a perfect stop for those who are travelling to Mumbai to Nashik by road. It requires a small detour to the Sanjegaon district, and has accommodations if required as well.
Wines Available: Chenin blanc, sauvignon blanc, cabernet sauvignon, shiraz, and sparkling rose and brut.
Timings: 10PM - 10 PM {Sunday to Monday}
Price: INR 150-250 for tour and tasting session
Where to stay: V Resorts E&G Green Valley is close to all the major vineyards, while at the same time being quite scenic and pretty. They also have trekking and cycling tours that you can indulge in, during your trip here.
Getting to Nashik: The nearest airport to Nashik is the Mumbai international Airport {3 hours away}. Alternatively you can also take a bus or train as well.