Readers' Comments

Subhash Arora Says:

I think so. Of course it has to meet the standards imposed by the Australian government. India does not make any box wine and I doubt if it would be available for some time yet. Arora

Posted @ December 26, 2022 18:10

Isaac Papalii Says:

Could you please advise if it is possible to export to Australia by the box?.

Posted @ December 26, 2022 11:20

Subhash Arora Says:

There is a Wine Symposium at Hyatt Lucknow on July 9. Best to attend that for detailed UP Policy. Top bureaucrats will be attending. Arora

Posted @ June 26, 2022 09:29

Datta More Says:

Dear Sir, I came to know that wine policy is opening in UP. I have been manufacturing winery equipment's since 2007.I have so far installed 27 winery & beer projects. However, If you have any scope,Please let me know.

Posted @ June 25, 2022 09:29

Paul Wagner Says:

Excellent Post. You've summarized this issue very nicely. As someone who has taught wine classes at Napa Valley College for the past three decades, it's good to see such a fact-based analysis of the kind of nonsense that sometimes appears in the news! Paul Wagner McPherson Distinguished Teacher Napa Valley College

Posted @ February 23, 2022 23:23

Subhash Arora Says:

Due to the Pandemic, it is not easy to estimate the latest import figures and I won't venture into the rather futile exercise. Import duties are the same at 150% but excise duties are different in each State. Temperature- controlled facilities are available at most metropolitan cities though one cannot be so sure in the Tier-2 or Tier-3 cities yet. Arora.

Posted @ September 17, 2021 18:50

Anil kumar Bhimjiyani Says:

Excellent Article Sir, Look forward to the most current status of Overseas wine imports into India. Are the Import Duty & Tax structure the same in every State Sir? Are there temperature controlled dedicated wine storage facilities available? Thank you

Posted @ September 17, 2021 16:20

Subhash Arora Says:

My pleasure.

Posted @ September 17, 2021 15:00

Ashwini Avate Says:

Thank you so much Subhashji!

Posted @ September 14, 2021 11:10

Ashwin Rodrigues Says:

The Goa model is the best. Low licence fees for retail and on premise leading to umpteen number of outlets and healthy competition. Basically it's like selling any non-alcoholic product. Market forces determine the number and location of outlets. Excise is collected at source so revenue leakage non-existent, unless you peg your duties higher than the neighbouring states. Moral of the story - the more rules you make the more you have to regulate. It's a never ending cycle

Posted @ August 26, 2021 20:00

Sidd Banerji Says:

Another brilliant and complete report of all what readers need. It's an education always, reading your notes and articles, Regards. Sidd Banerji

Posted @ August 26, 2021 10:00

Subhash Arora Says:

Sorry, the company went bankrupt and the shares are not traded and have zero value. I doubt if it would ever be revived. Sorry you burnt your fingers. Arora

Posted @ August 10, 2021 23:44

Pankaj Kumar Agarwl Says:

Sir i have a share of champagne indagein my name plz send me the status of company right now

Posted @ August 10, 2021 10:24

Subhash Arora Says:

I am sorry but the official name given by the company to me was that of Khairnar. Even their website talks of him as the winemaker. I have known Amrut Vare for many years but I was told his duties are in different area right now. I hope it clarifies the matter. Arora

Posted @ June 18, 2021 12:04

Jaydeep Kudale Says:

Thanks for giving good information which is something interested, there are other international player, where Indian wine maker doing good , as like Amrut from Moet, Which are not at all list in first 40.

Posted @ June 17, 2021 10:20

Subhash Arora Says:

What do you have in mind? How would you like to be associated with us ??

Posted @ June 07, 2021 16:10

Sumith Kumar Says:

We have made a song for TILT brand. And would like to discuss on the song of ua company and give you more context about the idea

Posted @ June 07, 2021 10:10

Subhash Arora Says:

Sorry, wrong number. We don't organise winery trips. Please contact them directly.

Posted @ April 11, 2021 10:35

Angad Says:

Hi there, i want to book a place for 2 people on Sunday 11th April at 10.30 am. Please confirm

Posted @ April 11, 2021 10:00

Sharad Phadnis Says:

Respected Shri Subhashji, We have been knowing each other since almost 8 years now. And we have met number of times in many of your events and also on many other events. I distinctly remember to have visited your home twice and have also experienced your hospitality when you invited me for breakfast in one of my visit. You are known in Indian Wine Fraternity for your great contribution to develop Wine Culture in India. While doing so you have encouraged new Wine Enthusiast for their role in respective areas. I owe you a lot for your such encouraging attitude which has kept me going forward in achieving success of our Club. I shall always remain grateful to you and Delwine for sparing a very valuable space for article written by Mrs. Sheetal Kadam on our club's 10th Anniversary year. Warm Regards Subhashji and Jai Ho!! Sharad Phadnis Nagpur Wine Club

Posted @ February 04, 2021 11:00

DN Raju Says:

D N Raju - Bangalore Soma Vineyards. As always,Subhash Arora, given your long association with Indian wine industry and intimate knowledge of how it has evolved over the years.. your write up brings out the facts , giiving a clear perspective of the subject. All said ,any policy, or step taken by a government body state or centre to promote Indian wine industry is a welcome step forward ! All the people who have strived to achieve this be it .past or present from Chowgule of Indage, Paanch Patil of Somanda, and Jagdish Holkar AIWPA should all be encouraged for their efforts in getting this GI tag issue to the fore.. Jai ho !.

Posted @ January 06, 2021 10:33

Pradeep Gupta Says:

Congratulations Nikhil & Neeraj for very hard work & very nicely covered article.

Posted @ January 06, 2021 10:07

Jagdish Holkar Says:

Actually, Outspoken person like you is very much needed to move the thing in a right direction. Always appreciate it.

Posted @ December 30, 2020 12:54

Calle Nilsson Says:

Hi, I am co-founder of a project called WineTourism.com. In November we did a winery survery about Covid-19 impact on Wine tourism. I think the report can be of industry for other wine industry organisations so i want to share it with you. You find the Covid-19 Global Wine Tourism report on link: https://www.winetourism.com/impact-covid-19-wine-tourism

Posted @ December 08, 2020 12:25

Donald J.P Ziraldo Says:

Thank you Subhash I enjoy reading the newsletter Delwine every time it arrives… All the best Stay safe Donald Donald J.P Ziraldo, C.M., LLD ZIRALDO ESTATE WINES

Posted @ November 14, 2020 11:57

Mackersey Says:

Wonderful facts. Many thanks. powerpoint presentation help help with powerpoint presentation

Posted @ November 06, 2020 10:53

Subhash Arora Says:

While I have nothing to advise on beers but did you get it on special sale or offer. In that case, they are not illegal or even unethical. But if sold at regular price, it is not very fair. As a beer drinker, you should always look at the expiry date. I think within a month or two, beer is still ok to drink. But my recommendation to all BUYERS is BEWARE. Please look at the expiry date before paying and be an INFORMED buyer. Arora

Posted @ September 15, 2020 11:50

Vipul Kapila Says:

I have purchased a case of hogarden beer today and when I opened the case I have come to know about that you are selling the product of 2 days expiry. Spoken to your operation manager Rakesh over a call but the reply I have got is sorry. No one is telling at the time of purchase that it is short expiry. Please do the needful.

Posted @ September 15, 2020 10:33

Joseph Machado Says:

May you rest in peace your hard effort s as at true pioneer in indian wine industry will never be forgotten ,you were the first Indian to jndian wine industry great heights ,remember your chateau indage being the best sparkling wine ay Indian cebrations , nobody had created this india you will always be remembered for all the tough decisions you took but more vibrant opportunities you created in india & abroad but God knew what was best , your sucessful entrepreneurship made all to see the vision of future wine I dustry blooming in Nasik vally today it's because if you nasik has becime such a popular wine destination in Maharashtra you will always be remembered as the first true business tycoon good bye jai jo.

Posted @ August 26, 2020 12:27

Sidd Banerji Says:

Remarkable obiituary with excellent flow and content.Its been always since last about 10/12 years, I have been following articles and notes by Subhash,nothing less than of large, academic importance with golden words and apt expressions. MY prayers for the departed soul of Shamraoji. My sincere reverence for Subhash.

Posted @ August 26, 2020 12:00

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Posted @ August 19, 2020 18:36

KUMARESWARAN Rangoon Srinivasan Says:

Very good collection of information. Kindly post your email ID.

Posted @ August 13, 2020 10:54

Yatin Patil Says:

Dear Mr. Arora, The Association (AIWPA) does not get into price policies of the industry, which is at the sole discretion of the individual wineries. The comment herewith of an increase of 4-5% over a period of 3 years, was made with respect to Reveilo Wines. It is my personal view, and not on behalf of the Association. Regards.

Posted @ August 06, 2020 21:18

Gianander Says:

Many states Govt agreed that alcohol is the most essential part of reverberatory which means it plays an important part in the growth of economy, if government doesn’t reduce taxes our country will take much longer to be back on track . There have been packages announced which we all only see as an announcement, instead of it if go to reduces the excise duty , VAT and GST on related products trust me we will fight back at much better pace to bring back our economy. Hope all readers agree to it.

Posted @ July 28, 2020 13:34

Bharat Singh Rathore Says:

Very nice article. It’s always an experience and motivating to know the journey of such great personalities in the wine world. Great piece Of advise. Please do something with the taxes and imports in India with regards to wines. If we can win this, this will not only give a chance to the economy but also open more jobs and cultural change which is confined to the cream society at the moment.

Posted @ July 18, 2020 13:00

Cathy Van Zyl MW Says:

Another country that is growing its vineyard plantings of chenin blanc is Israel. Here, many winemakers believe they can emulate South Africa's success with the variety, and there have been numerous visits by viticulturists and winemakers to the Cape to learn how to best grow chenin vines and make wine from its grapes. My 2017 visit and a few tastings in London certainly highlighted that several winemakers are coming to grips with the variety and producing lovely blends with chenin a key component, as well as bottling exceptional single variety examples. That from Shvo WInery (made by owner Gaby Sadan) is always among the best in a line-up, Ze'ev Dunia's Sea Horse a perennial favourite and Dalton, which only started bottling chenin in 2015, also appealing. Cheers. Cathy Van Zyl

Posted @ June 30, 2020 23:00

Cathy Van Zyl MW Says:

While International Chenin Day didn't cause much of a blip on the radar in India, in South Africa it dominated the day. Despite the country being in the grip of lockdown restrictions, timing worked out perfectly, with the peak of the Chenin Producers Association's campaign kicking in with the lifting of alcohol restrictions and consumers on 1 June. And, on Saturday 22, neither lockdown nor the South African winter (and rainy Cape!) could dampen the Chenin Blanc spirit! It was the CPA's most successful year on social media to date, with far higher participation and engagement both from local and international accounts (consumers, retailers, producers and trade) than ever before. There were many more posts from international wine trade/personalities than in previous years, giving great credit to South African producers.

Here are some of the statistics for #DrinkChenin and @CheninSA for your readers: 

• Unique views remained the same at 1,3 million in 2020, a considerable result in the context of such a highly competitive digital space
• Impressions (total number of views) increased to 6,62 million - meaning that more #DrinkChenin related tweets were seen overall (the story is being told and heard!)
• Of these 6,62 million impressions, @CheninBlancSA is shares first place at contributing 1.4 million of them 
• @CheninBlancSA’s own impressions (total number of views) increased to 5,33 million (up from 4.1 million in 2019) - meaning that the CPA's own content, or mentions of the Chenin Blanc Association, increased by 30%
• The CPA had 25,955 video views in June on Facebook (solely due to the #DrinkChenin video campaign)
• The Facebook Page reach increased by 4,810% (that’s not a typo!) during the campaign period
• Facebook Page engagement increased by 964 

Regards. Cathy Van Zyl MW

Posted @ June 30, 2020 20:10

Subhash Arora Says:

I am afraid we cannot help you. I hope some of our Mumbai readers would be able to help you.

Posted @ June 12, 2020 09:02

Rohit Prakash Sankpal Says:

Hi team, I want to see the bioghaphy of Mr. Shamrao Chougule sir . Can you help me out to get the copy of same ? I am his relatives (grandson of late Mr. Pandurang Chougule).

Posted @ June 11, 2020 15:00

Subhash Arora Says:

We would be glad to give any more details of labels/prices and who to contact. We are giving this service free during COVID time to help the consumer get a wider choice. Arora.

Posted @ June 10, 2020 11:35

Sujata Patil Says:

Monika Enterprises too has been working with some retailers to organize home deliveries of their wines and spirits.

Posted @ June 09, 2020 14:00

Subhash Arora Says:

We have received this communication today from the Grand Cercle des Vins de Bordeaux who will present the 2019 vintage of its 138 member Châteaux at Château Laroze in Saint-Emilion, on 15-17 June 2020 from 9am to 7pm. At the beginning of March, we announced the cancellation of our Primeur tastings, for health reasons that we all know... The health and safety of everyone remained, and still remains, our priority. In France and in other countries, a gradual recovery of activity is currently underway, with the start of de-confinement since 11 May. This perspective encourages us to reschedule the presentation of the 2019 vintage to professionals in the sector! They are invited to meet us from Monday 15 to Wednesday 17 of June at Château Laroze in Saint-Emilion, for a tasting session with revised arrangements, adapted to the current context (service by dedicated staff, without the presence of the owners).

Posted @ June 05, 2020 09:17

Subhash Arora Says:

Sagnik, I susggest you become a member of Facebook group of Indian Wine Academy closed group. Lots of information, Suggest you also join to get delwine (www.delwine.com) newsletter. 846 editions are there. its free and more info than you can get in any coursed in India. Then you just need to drink and taste wine as much as possible and as you like. You are onto something nice and different. Pursue it further.

Posted @ May 27, 2020 09:53

Ashish Patni Says:

Dear Sir, I got the reference of Indian Wine Academy from the internet and as I have been studying about wine from last couple of months, I have started realising that wine is not just a fermented fruit juice which complements your food, but lot more than that and is a complete world in itself. There is lot to understand, study and experice. Suddenly my new developing wine passion encouraged me to go further and search a carrier on this path. So, In order to shape my passion driven dream into reality, I am looking for a professional guidance from experts and industry exposure. I am very much sure that indian wine academy is truly a platform which every wine enthusiast would always look for. I therefore request for your guidance and association and wish to start my wine journey with indian wine academy. Awaiting your reply.

Posted @ May 27, 2020 09:40

Subhash Arora Says:

Membership to the Academy is complimentary to get the newsletter delWine. There is a lot of information given on the website. You may also join IWA FB site by requesting and I will accept it. But finally, it is by tasting more and more wine that you can learn a lot and reach the next level. Good luck. We have a Wine Club also but unless you are in Delhi it does not make sense to be a member. Subhash Arora

Posted @ April 27, 2020 16:23

Rajiv Ahuja Says:

Hi! I am Rajiv Ahuja from Jalandhar a self-employed And 51 by age. Had been drinking wine since long but with very less knowledge about its taste culture and mannerisms. Read a lot about you and your passion for wines while hunting information about the wine. Will Highly appreciate details regarding the membership of the Academy. Regards.

Posted @ April 27, 2020 14:00

Fernando Riquelme Says:

The ‘The book of Monastrell’ took place on 3th Dicember 2018. The book, coordinated from the ‘Cofradia del Vino Reino de la Monastrell’ (Brotherhood of The Kingdom of the Monastrell Wine), is the result of the cooperation of several authors, who work in the different sectors (wineries, university, research, etc.) ‘The book of Monastrell’ is available at the following link (spanish language): http://www.cofradiamonastrell.org/ Kind regards Fernando Riquelme.

Posted @ April 03, 2020 13:51

Subhash Arora Says:

Thanks a lot for your compliments, Sir. Very inspiring. Your son is welcome to contact me. I taste Moldova wines regularly and find them very good value-for-money wines. However, people in India neither know nor appreciate Moldova wines. I have been following up with the The National Office for Vine and Wine in Moldova and recommending them concerted efforts to promote their wines. It is too expensive for an individual firm to financially bear the burden. In any case, I would be glad to help him if I can. Arora.

Posted @ March 27, 2020 15:41

Harbhajan Singh Hampal Says:

It is heartening to read about your diversified qualifications and experience in the field of wines. I am 87years old retired bureaucrat residing in Saket,New Delhi and would like to congratulate you on yourachievements.Recently,my son has shifted to Moldova in Eastern Europe and has been writing to me about Moldovan Wines. He is Paramjiet Singh and will soon get in touch with you. He is keen to promote Moldovan Wines in India.. My best wishes and blessings.

Posted @ March 26, 2020 13:20

Subhash Arora Says:

We are putting you on the mailing list. Please confirm when you receive the first one.

Posted @ March 15, 2020 12:06

Divyesh C Panchal Says:

Hi there, I work for Sula Vineyards in a position on GM - Brand Activation and would love to receive your newsletter on a regular basis. Thank you! Divyesh Panchal +91 9691323334.

Posted @ March 14, 2020 11:25

Subhash Arora Says:

Thanks for the appreciation, Rajeev. I believe in telling it like it is, based on my personal experience. Jai Ho! Subhash.

Posted @ March 12, 2020 14:50

Rajeev Samant Says:

Great article Subhash. Anyone wanting a good basic understanding of our wine industry today will find it invaluable! Jai Ho!

Posted @ March 09, 2020 10:50

Subhash Arora Says:

Bruce, thanks for your wonderful comments. You are courageous but a visionary who believes in India's future wine drinkers the number of which is on the increase. You are one of the top producers in Napa who make excellent wines and yet at affordable prices if one were not to considered the ridiculous duties. I know one day the duties and the regime will change and those like you who are investing in your efforts and more importantly are genuinely passionate about your winemaking and love for India, stand to gain. I wish you luck. Thanks for encouraging my writings as always. Subhash

Posted @ March 02, 2020 12:12

Bruce Cakebread Says:

Hi Subhash! Enjoyed this article, and you are quite right to be realistic about potential of wine sales. Selling wine in India definitely has its challenges, but for some reason, I keep coming back for many years now. The search for fools gold? Not me, it is the wine drinkers of India who are passionate about wine, like yourself and many others that make me leave my beautiful Napa Valley, to travel half way around the world to visit India and enjoy great food and wine with old friends and meet new friends. This is what wine a special beverage. 30394We are the lucky ones. All the best Bruce Cakebread.

Posted @ March 01, 2020 15:00

Subhash Arora Says:

You dont need import license anyway. But there is no defined quantity according to the best of our knowledge. I know of people who have gotten together and imported pallets of wine (about 600 bottles) without any excise license. One has to pay the customs duty. excise duty and VAT to clear the shipment.

Posted @ January 25, 2020 12:12

Dinesh Kumar Says:

i want to know how much maximum qty of imported wine one can import in to India from abroad without any excise license. Some one told me that an Indian can import 7 cases having 12 bottle each without any license. Please clarify ?

Posted @ January 25, 2020 10:07

Subhash Arora Says:

To the extent that it is basically a fine product from an internationally renowned producer like Hugh Johnson, and it helps the branding a bit. But nothing more. After all, the price is mainly due to the decanter and fancy packaging. (It reminds me of a Nashik producer who 'created' a special wine costing over a lakh rupees by putting a diamond ring or something at the bottom of the bottle that was worth Rs, 500!! I wonder if he sold even a single bottle !!) It made an interesting story, I thought-taking to international waters anyway. Subhash Arora

Posted @ January 22, 2020 12:50

Rajeev Samant Says:

Is there any point to pricing a wine at 35,000 Euros a bottle? Apart from getting a lot of media attention even in faraway Delhi??

Posted @ January 22, 2020 12:10

Subhash Arora Says:

Thanks for the kind words, Rajeev. It has been a fun journey for 18 long years, organising 300 wine events for the Delhi Wine Club. I will still be around and will help Sourish when required. I hope the legacy continues for a long time to come. Jai Ho! Subhash

Posted @ January 22, 2020 11:27

Rajeev Samant Says:

What a legendary journey it has been Subhash! Wish you all the best for your future endeavours. And may Sourish chart new waters, difficult as it will be after the intrepid explorer steps down!

Posted @ January 22, 2020 10:30

Subhash Arora Says:

I am sure government can collate. But not available in general, from newspaper reports. Of course, one could extrapolate from total current sales. Rule of thumb, half the sales are of liquor and about 40% is Black Label and perhaps Chivas, I am told. Wine sales are really negligible. Subhash

Posted @ January 21, 2020 15:54

Abhay Kewadkar Says:

Subhash, Is there any data available on Import and Sale of duty free Alcohol in India and thus potentially what is the saving in forign exchange one can expect ?

Posted @ January 21, 2020 13:00

Hildegard Fuchs Says:

The German wine estate "Weingut Fuchs" successfully produces wines of very low histamine content; the histamine contents of many of their white and red wines is around or even less than 0.1 mg/l. They provide a concrete analysis for each wine. Website: https://www.weingut-fuchs.de/en/histamine-free-wine.php Please feel free to contact the winery for details.

Posted @ November 28, 2017 09:05

Subhash Arora Says:

Sorry online sales not allowed in India

Posted @ October 03, 2017 11:10

V Vishwanathan Says:

Is port wine 1000 available for purchase on line? pl advise cost and minimum order.

Posted @ October 03, 2017 10:20