BANGALORE: It may not be the country that is top of mind when talking about fine wine – or even ordinary plonk – but India is set to pop the cork on wine tourism.
The state of Karnataka is planning to market wine tours to tourists similar to those offered in California’s Napa Valley, New Zealand, Australia and South Africa.
“Tourists can stroll through picturesque vineyards and be a part of the wine-making process. They can also buy fresh wine,” a horticulture department source said.
Karnataka grapes are grown in nearly 9,700 hectares across the state, including the Krishna Valley.
According to Wine and Dine magazine, Omar Khayam, a methode champagnoise wine, has been on the British market for 10 years. Now it is possible to find both a red and a white table wine from India in some UK shops and restaurants.
India’s wine market is growing fast, at around 30 per cent a year. Upmarket bars and eateries that in the past stocked only a limited number of brands have multiplied their orders for newer brands.
