Wine in India is having a moment—and it’s not just a passing trend. Once reserved for luxury hotels and five-star restaurants, wine is now making its way into Indian homes, celebrations, and even daily dining experiences. With rising curiosity, access to imported bottles, and improved wine literacy, India’s wine culture is growing steadily, reshaping the way we choose, sip, and talk about wine.

Whether you’re a casual drinker or a budding enthusiast, understanding how the wine scene is evolving can help you make the right wine choices in 2025 and beyond.

The Rise of Wine in India: From Occasional to Everyday

For years, India’s alcohol landscape was dominated by spirits and beer. Wine was often misunderstood or considered too complex for the average consumer. However, the past decade has changed this narrative dramatically.

Several key factors have contributed to this shift:

• Increased global exposure through travel, digital content, and pop culture

• More accessible price points thanks to both Indian vineyards and premium wine importers in India

• A shift toward healthier drinking habits, with wine seen as a “lighter” alternative

• Growing presence of wine distributors in India who educate, stock, and promote good wine

As of 2025, wine in India is not just a beverage—it’s a lifestyle statement.

Consumer Behavior: Today’s Indian Wine Drinker

The modern Indian wine drinker is curious, experimental, and values quality. Unlike before, when wine was selected purely by price or brand recognition, today’s consumer is informed.

They care about:

• The grape variety (like Tempranillo, Syrah, or Sangiovese)

• Food pairing potential

• Provenance and region

• Sustainability and production methods

As the culture matures, wine choice becomes less about status and more about personal preference and occasion.

Where Indians Are Drinking Wine in 2025

Thanks to online platforms and boutique stores supported by wine distributors in India, wine is now consumed in more diverse settings:

• Home gatherings and casual dinners

• Weddings and milestone celebrations

• Restaurants with wine-friendly menus

• Solo wine nights—a growing trend among millennials and Gen Z

Premium labels are now available in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, not just urban metros. This is in part due to reliable premium wine importers in India who ensure quality distribution and storage.

Wine Grapes You Should Know in 2025

When you’re exploring wine in India, understanding wine grapes helps you decode the bottle better. In 2025, these three grapes (and their blends) are expected to dominate consumer preference:

1. Tempranillo

A red grape from Spain, Tempranillo is known for its earthy character, smooth tannins, and food-friendly nature. It blends exceptionally well with Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah, offering complexity and balance.

2. Syrah

Also known as Shiraz, this grape gives wines a spicy, rich flavor with dark fruit notes. It suits Indian palates that favor bold, full-bodied flavors.

3. Sangiovese

Italy’s prized grape, used in Chianti wines. It’s high in acidity with cherry-like aromas, making it perfect for tomato-based dishes and spiced Indian gravies.

Top Wines to Try in India in 2025

As the wine market expands, so do the options. Here are three standout picks for 2025 that offer taste, quality, and versatility:

1. Altozano Tempranillo Cabernet Red Wine

A Spanish red that balances the rustic nature of Tempranillo with the structure of Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s bold yet smooth—ideal for grilled meats, mushroom-based dishes, or Indian kebabs.

Why try it?
It’s beginner-friendly but layered enough to impress seasoned wine drinkers.

2. Altozano Tempranillo Syrah Rosé Wine

Crisp, fruity, and refreshing—this rosé brings out the best of both grapes. With notes of strawberries, watermelon, and a dry finish, it pairs well with seafood, spicy Indian starters, and even light desserts.

Perfect for:
Warm evenings, brunches, or a chill night with friends.

3. Barone Ricasoli Chianti DOCG Red Wine

From one of the oldest winemaking families in Italy, this Chianti is dry, well-balanced, and true to its heritage. Made with Sangiovese grapes, it complements everything from Margherita pizza to butter chicken.

Food tip:
Pair it with rich, creamy dishes to highlight its acidity.

How to Make the Right Wine Choice

With so many bottles lining the shelves, picking the right wine can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re just starting out. The labels might mention unfamiliar grape names, regions you’ve never heard of, or tasting notes that sound more poetic than practical.

But don’t worry—choosing wine isn’t about memorizing fancy terms or buying the most expensive bottle on the rack. It’s about discovering what you enjoy and learning how to match that with your mood, meal, or moment.

Here are a few simple, effective tips to help you find the right wine for any occasion:

1. Read the Label – It Tells a Story

Start by checking the basics on the bottle:

• Grape Variety: Look for names like Tempranillo, Syrah, or Sangiovese. These give you an idea of the flavor profile—whether it’s fruity, spicy, bold, or light.

• Region: Wines from Spain, Italy, or India each offer unique characteristics based on climate and soil. For example, Spanish wines like Altozano Tempranillo Cabernet Red Wine are known for earthy richness, while Italian wines like Barone Ricasoli Chianti DOCG are dry and aromatic.

• Tasting Notes: Often written on the back, these notes describe what to expect—berries, oak, spice, floral hints, etc.

Don’t overthink it—use the label as a guide to match what you like with what’s in the bottle.

2. Start with the Food – Pairing Is Key

Wine and food are best enjoyed together. A great pairing enhances both the drink and the dish.

• Rich Indian curries, grilled meats, or kebabs go well with bold reds like Tempranillo Cabernet or Chianti.

• Seafood, salads, or spicy starters pair beautifully with crisp rosés like Altozano Tempranillo Syrah Rosé Wine.

• Desserts or sweet dishes? Consider a Port Wine for its rich, sweet finish.

When in doubt, remember this rule: match the weight of the wine with the weight of the food. Light dishes go with light wines, hearty meals with fuller-bodied reds.

3. Don’t Ignore Rosé – It’s Made for India

Many people think wine is either red or white, but rosé offers the best of both worlds. It’s crisp, refreshing, and incredibly versatile—perfect for India’s warm weather and diverse cuisine.

Rosés like Altozano Tempranillo Syrah Rosé Wine are ideal for:

• Brunches and casual get-togethers

• Lighter Indian fare like tandoori chicken or paneer tikka

• First-time wine drinkers who want a smooth, fruity experience

Rosé is no longer a novelty—it’s a smart and stylish wine choice in 2025.

4. Ask for Help – It’s Smart, Not Silly

Still unsure? Don’t hesitate to ask.

Reputable wine distributors in India, retail store experts, or even online sommeliers are there to guide you. They can suggest wines based on your taste preferences, food menu, or budget.

Many premium wine importers in India even host tasting sessions or provide easy-to-understand guides online to help you make informed decisions.

Remember, there’s no shame in learning—everyone starts somewhere.

5. Choose What You Love – That’s the Right Wine

At the end of the day, the right wine isn’t about price, origin, or what someone else recommends. It’s about what you enjoy.

If you love a fruity rosé over a dry red, go for it. If you prefer something bold and intense, explore wines like Barone Ricasoli Chianti DOCG or Tempranillo Cabernet. Your taste buds are the best judge.

Port Wines Are Back in Style

While red and white wines dominate most shelves, Port Wines are regaining popularity in India. These fortified wines are sweeter, richer, and excellent for after-dinner sipping.

Great with:

• Dark chocolate desserts

• Dry fruit platters

• Traditional Indian sweets like gulab jamun or barfi

Many premium wine importers in India now include port-style wines in their portfolios, offering more variety to dessert lovers.

The Role of Importers and Distributors in India’s Wine Growth

India’s wine scene wouldn’t have grown without the critical role played by premium wine importers and distributors. These companies ensure:

• Safe handling and transportation of wines

• Consistent temperature-controlled storage

• Education through wine tastings, events, and online content

• Wider reach to consumers in semi-urban and rural areas

As more Indians show interest in global wines, the role of these partners becomes even more important in maintaining quality and availability.

What’s Next for Wine in India?

Looking ahead, the Indian wine scene in 2025 is expected to:

• Embrace organic and sustainable wines

• Explore local vineyards experimenting with global varietals

• Increase wine education and appreciation events

• Normalize wine as part of everyday lifestyle, not just for celebrations

Whether you’re new to wine or building your collection, now is the perfect time to explore.

Final Thoughts

The culture of wine in India is evolving rapidly. With better knowledge, greater access, and a broader palate, Indian consumers are making informed wine choices—from exploring different wine grapes to appreciating pairings and production stories.

If you’re looking to elevate your wine experience in 2025, start with curated labels like Altozano Tempranillo Cabernet, Altozano Tempranillo Syrah Rosé, or the heritage-rich Barone Ricasoli Chianti DOCG.

And don’t hesitate to reach out to your local wine distributor in India to help you pick the perfect bottle.

FAQs

Q1. What’s the best wine for beginners in India?
Try balanced reds like Altozano Tempranillo Cabernet or a fresh rosé like Altozano Tempranillo Syrah for an easy start.

Q2. Where can I buy premium imported wine in India?
Look for trusted premium wine importers in India and authorized distributors who offer genuine, well-stored selections.

Q3. Are Port Wines popular in India?
Yes! They’re making a comeback