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Maureen Kerleau Says: |
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All of the descriptions seem to fit Subhash. However to me wine warrior seems the most fitting - you are so incredibly tenacious, and just never say die. As you know I have been slogging very hard with wine in India for over five years now and agree that the government has not moved (forward) at all in that time. The one great positive step to me is the overall awareness to wine, largely thanks to the commitment of a few Indian winemakers and yourself. As far as I'm concerned, I played a minute part and wish you and all the Indian winemakers well !! |
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Jesudoss Says: |
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Dear Sir, Ref yr website, I want to drink 2 cups of wine daily for our health. in chennai some department stores are selling australlian imported wines. How can i know selling wine in good condition. can i buy the imported wines? pls advise , how to check and the wines before buying. Awaiting yr reply.Regards
Jesudoss |
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Louis Ferreira Says: |
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The quality of most Pinotages has definitely improved over the past 10 years, especially those in the premium to super premium price categories. Beyerskloof Diesel Pinotage is the best example of South African Pinotage we have tasted to date and is the benchmark. Rijks Pinotage Reserve also fantastic. These wines will convert you to Pinotage if you're in two minds about liking or disliking Pinotage. |
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Subhash Arora Says: |
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Thanks Alok. Pity you didn't catch the note of sarcasm in it!! I do believe personally that it was an idiotic statement. But as I said in my edit, we are a free country and are allowed to say what we please and thank God for that!!. |
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Alok Chandra Says: |
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Relax, no body in South India is going to enforce prohibition - this is just public posturing ahead of state assembly elections. The fact is, most state governments 9an politicians) derive a major part of their revenues from alcohol - and would go broke if they went the prohibition route. |
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Subhash Arora Says: |
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Thanks, Bruce. I appreciate the good wishes. Subhash |
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Subhash Arora Says: |
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Thanks for the encouraging words, my friends. And to me it is a dream and I hope it continues for as long as I live! Subhash |
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AVININDER SINGH Says: |
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Dear Wine Evangelist - with a difference; you rock !! The thing most likeable about you is that you are far,far away from being PRETENTIOUS which, unfortunately, is not the case with an INDIAN SOMMELIER whose name I will not dignify by mentioning. Knowledge does not come merely from FORMAL EDUCATION; sometimes PASSION and PRACTICAL LEARNING have a far more profound role to play. As someone who has vastly enjoyed your Wine Presentations, especially at the OPERA MEETS I can only say - more power to people like you who realise and express that the Price Tag alone does not define the TRUE VALUE of a wine. Keep up the good work as, in this Country, to paraphrase another famous Independence Day Speech (and, ofcourse Robert Frost) you "HAVE MILES TO GO BEFORE YOU SLEEP".
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Subhash Arora Says: |
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Great idea, shankar. Now let's look for the right word for wine! Subhash-Capetown |
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B.Shankaranarayan Says: |
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The closest equivalent to evangelist in the Indian context that I can think of is "dasa" like in Purandaradasa. Itinerant, preaching, singing, loving, passionate and zealous advocate of a cause. So how about Wine Dasa Subhash Arora! Wine Ho. |
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Bruce Cakebread Says: |
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Congratulations, thank you for all your efforts and best wishes for another 400! |
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dkraju Says: |
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Wine warrior is more appropriate for what you have been doing to make Indians to change from Gulping to sipping while enjoying one's drink. I remember meeting you in 2007 for the first time and right from there, I have been reading Delwine and most of my understanding of Indian wine scene comes from what You present. You have to add to your objective to create entry level drinkers weaning them away from consuming hard liquors. How you can catch that segment of readers, I have no clues at the moment. Government of India and state governments have to set a goal for Indian Society to increase wine consumption to 10% over the next decade from mere less than 2% at this point of time. They get same income generation from wine as well and save on free health care cost. We need many wine warriors like you to make this happen. dkraju |
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Rajeev Samant Says: |
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Great newsletter! I have been in Colombo looking for an importer (I was successful thankfully!) and am now on a boat in the Maldives with spotty internet. Onward to greater glory, Cav Subhash!! Rajeev Saman CEO - Sula Vineyards |
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Remie Law Says: |
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Congratulations on your 400th issue of delWine!
That is indeed a milestone for any emerging wine drinkers' market.
May I wish you continued prosperity in this endeavour and many, many more great wines come your way. Remie |
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EnCiLee Says: |
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I have been a dedicated follower of the Indian wine industry and have found Vinsura's quality to be among the best in Indian wines. Some of their wines outclass all other Indian wines. The consistency of their quality and their varieties has made me only want more from the Vinsura stable. |
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Arun Bakshi Says: |
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Dear Mr. Arora, I have been following you quite a long time.
Appreciates your effort for popularising wine in India. Best regards, Arun Bakshi Jaan Restaurant Executive
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Yegas Naidoo Says: |
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I had no idea about the shenanigans of Captain D Giles. As a matter of interest I would like to inform you that "Wine on the Wings" is competently managed and co-ordinated by my gracious and informed New York based friend Ms Eunice Fried. I made a mutual introduction some time back and I am certain she is receiving your Newsletters with gratitude. Yegas |
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Peter F May Says: |
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Thanks for the reference to the Pinotage Club blog at www.pinotage.org - and the link to your review of my book. Ms Schwartz's Fort Ross Pinotage continues to receive many glowing reviews and I look forward to be in a position to taste it. |
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Tarsillo Says: |
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"Sure de nada" FLAVORS has been one of the 1st supporter and client (in Delhi) of Vinsura. However their wine had become worse every time and the present plans to procure it frm 3rd parties doesn't show any dedication to quality: the very word has been absent in Subhash report! Personally and buziness wise, I do not list any low quality stuff, not even for free! Nothing to do with marketing which in Delhi has always ben very dedicated and efficient. Think about it Mr DESAI!
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Linda Schwartz Says: |
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Fort Ross Vineyard has been producing Pinotage grown on the steep ridges of the Sonoma Coast of California since 2001. Is Pinotage now cultivated in the Indian vineyards of SULA? |
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Subhash Arora Says: |
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Technically speaking, it was not the first out-of-town event of DWC. We had organised one at Westin Resots, Sona (#127) on July 20, 2008 and many of us had spent the night there. But many Gurgaon members drove by car and went back after dinner. This was the first one which was not a driveable destination-and hence we believe that Goa was an historic event. Also, it was a whole 3-night wine weekend and not just one dinner. In fact, that is why we have lumped both the dinners and several optional lunches with complimentary wine as one event. Subhash Arora |
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B.Shankaranarayan Says: |
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A very timely and informative article. Hope the market with liven up with strong competition. |
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Vina La Rosa Says: |
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Viña La Rosa was also founded in the XIX century (in 1824) by the Ossa family, which still run the winery. In fact the actual Chairman of the board is don Ismael Ossa, sixth generation of the family, and Cristobal Ossa, CEO, is the seventh generation. So Viña La Rosa is also one of the oldest wineries in Chile. |
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Shivraj Kate Says: |
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Dear Sir/Madam,
Can you tell me the detail procedure for getting new wine shop license in maharashtra?
I wish to start new wine shop.
Regards,
Shivraj |
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Christophe Pans Says: |
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Dear Subash Arora, Interesting article. Do take note that the winery Cousiño Macul is still in the hands of the founding family with today Arturo Cousiño as CEO, 6th generation. Christophe Pans Export Manager Dyonisos Wines SpA |
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Anurag Mehrota Says: |
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Sounds like you guys had a blast and we missed a great event. |
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PARTHA DASGUPTA Says: |
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please give me a minimum range wine brand available in kolkata |
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Raj Says: |
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Dear Mr subhash Hi its seems to be very good occasion next time pls do not hesitatre to cnct us as we are dealing in wines since last 20 plus years in diu as wel as in goa having distributorship in goa for only wines many thanks |
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Subhash Arora Says: |
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Thanks for the clarification, Diego. During my visit to Chile, I tasted several of your wines including a unique Rose-which I loved. I also passed thru the township of Macul. I was very impressed with some of your wines tasted. Your winery is on my wish list for next visit. Thanks for compliments on the article. Subhash Arora |
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Diego Cousiño Says: |
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Just to correct one part of this article: "Viña Cousiño Macul is older winery but has passed through different families". Cousino-Macul is currently administered by the 6th generation of the original owners and has never been sold during its more than 150 years of existence. It is the only Chilean Winery founded in the 19th century which has continued in the hands of the same family. Besides that error it's a great article!! |
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John Worontschak Says: |
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Please note that terroir do not use the services of john worontschak at all. Although I was employed at the beginning of this venture and wish it all the best, I am in no way involved and take great offense at the winery using my name in its marketing purposes John Worontschak |
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Subhash Arora Says: |
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Muchas gracias amigos Beautiful pic of Carmen in Goa Times. - will give u a copy. |
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Carmen Hernandez Says: |
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Dear Subhash, Thanks so much for hosting this GREAT event. The resort was very nice. The amenities and services made the stay very comfortable wanting us to come back for more. Each and every meal was special with good food and fun atmosphere. We will never forget the great lunch and visit we had at the Portuguese house on Sunday afternoon. It was like visiting friends in their home. The weather had little or no impact and we really enjoyed the time spent getting to know the other members better. We felt like we made special friends on this trip. Please include us again if and when another trip is planned. You are a great host!! Best regards, Fred and Carmen Hernandez |
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Parag P Tripathi Says: |
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Dear Cavalier saheb,
I and Neelima have no hesitation in saying that the Saturday Dinner at Martins was once of great dinner entertainments (dintainment) we were privies to.(Unfortuna™ely missed the firs™ one)
The atmosphere was family and convivial, the arrangements wonderful and there was the added grace and charm of the bahls (the rival hotel and hospitality chains of Taj and oberois better wtch out!)The next day breakfast table gossip was equally enjoyable, and mind you, no hangovers!!!!!
Beleza is a top class property and that it is owned by 'winian'(wine club member, what else) makes it a home. The menu and the wine selections were upto your impeccable 'Cav. Standards'!!
We look forward to the next one,
Warmest and Cheers,
Parag and Neelima |
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Ranjit Gupta Says: |
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Dear Subhash, Nanda & I thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. This was a great trip. The lunch at Palazio was one of those meals one will remember for a long time.The Resort Hotel was great value. You really did provide an inexhaustible supply of Indian Wine!This was also a nice size of group the core of 16 plus the other 14. Presumably there should be more trips. Kerala with 2 or 3 house boats together? Best regards. Ranjit |
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Suprio Bose Says: |
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Dear Mr. Arora
As a Die Hard Foodie the humble (pun Intended) spread of Lobsters, Crabs, Calamari, Snappers, Trouts, Xacuti etc etc etc just added more fuel to fire when paired with the delicious Italian, Spanish, Chilean and Indian wines this past weekend. I thoroughly enjoyed the “Sangre del Toro” from Spain along with my Chicken Xacuti and Fish Fingers at Tentacao. My wife loved the Moscat from Big Banyan with her desserts. Martin’s corner rocked with some great music, Elvis was brought back to life with some soulful rendering of Jailhouse Rock and I could see our whole table jamming to some good fashioned rock and roll. The next day I was told that Palazzio was the best meal some had had in ages (which unfortunately I missed preferring Souza Lobo to Palazzio which incidentally was not bad either- but the lack of wine on my table did pinch a bit). All in all I must say that it was an extremely satiable experience both to the heart and the soul (and I dare to add the stomach as well). Thanks Mr. Arora for organizing this wonderful event. It wouldn’t be wrong to say that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach and the great wines and the food we tried during this weekend goes a long way to prove this adage !
Great Work, Please keep them coming.
Proud to be a part of the DWC.
Thanks
Suprio |
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Subhash Arora Says: |
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Tickets for the Bordeaux first growth masterclass at November's Decanter Fine Wine Encounter have sold out within minutes of going on sale. All 85 tickets to the masterclass with the directors of the five renowned chateaux – Lafite-Rothschild, Margaux, Latour, Mouton-Rothschild and Haut-Brion – were snapped up shortly after bookings opened at 10am GMT. Subhash Arora |
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Subhash Arora Says: |
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I agree with you so long as the oak does not overpower the fruit in Chenin Blanc. Both the wines you suggest are a perfet match, I feel. Thanks. Subhash |
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Pieter Louw Says: |
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Very interesting discussion. At our Wine Guild in Johannesburg we recently had a Indian cuisine evening. Wooded, Off-Dry, and even sweeter Chenin blanc's were a perfect match to the mild Indian dishes. Softer styled Shiraz was also good match to mild and stronger spiced lamb and beef. Food and wine pairing excellent medium to promote stylish wine consumption. Wine regards, Pieter Louw |
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Senthil Says: |
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Hi I would want to participate in Wine Tasting events in HYDERABAD Thanks. |
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Ajay Sorte Says: |
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It is certainly an exclusive information from the remote corner of the planet.I expect more of such info on Argentina, Bolivia, Peru, Brazil,Hungary etc.Many many thanx! |
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Kumar Says: |
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It is good to close the Wineshops and make wines to be sold in Big Retail shops like Bigbazaar or Reliance MArts where Anybody more than 21 years can buy with proper ID Proof. Also it is good to allow TODDY... GOD MADE LIQOUR...really good for health ...as it is got directly from Palm and Coconut Trees. |
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Miguel Torres Maczassek Says: |
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Dear Subhash, Thank you very much for your article it is very complete and gives a good view of what is happening in Chile.
Best regards, Miguel Torres Maczassek |
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dkraju Says: |
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Contradictions galore in liquor distribution policies of TN. Chennai is on the way to be a major business hub in India with a lot of international players having already opened their work shops and many expatriates residing, no government can ill afford to ignore income generation from liquor sale. |
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Gaurav Luthra Says: |
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Hi where can i find good Australian wines in Delhi especially from Coonnawara south australia an early reply will be really helpful |
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Warren Edwardes Says: |
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"I am sorry I have to disagree with totally. I love oloroso and palo cortado with tapas. But, as a match with Indian food, it's a big no-no" Actually we don't disagree at all on this. Though I should have added a smiley ;-). Sherry just doesn't go with spicy Indian food. The alcohol is almost always too high (burning with chilli) and the acidity is too low (not nimboo pani like refreshing). But Oloroso is a less bad match with spicy food than India's favourite tipple, Scotch Whisky, with a somewhat similar palate (whisky gets much of its flavour from Oloroso casks) but with half the alcohol (though still a lot). And much as I try and persuade people to avoid tannic reds with spicy food they insist on doing so despite the poor match. So we have to go easy on appropriate wine and food matching as most people take no notice and drink their favourite drink with their best liked food. Hence I wrote "I am working on an (impossible) Sherry and Indian ..." But here are my (impossible) thoughts on a competition entry: Nothing more than mildly spicy of course. 1. First course Freshly baked Yeasty Nan stuffed with mildly spiced chicken tandoori with Manzanilla en Rama (so extra yeasty) 2. Main Course Mildly spiced Hyderabad Mutton (pre-marinaded in Dry Oloroso) Biryani Mango and Moscatel pureé to accompany. (Alphonso of course as I'm Goan) with Rich Oloroso. (Rich i.e. slightly sweetened rather than Dry to offset chilies. Though in general I wouldn't touch sweetened Oloroso) 3. Dessert Gulab Jamun and vanilla ice cream sandwich with Pedro Ximenéz . What do you think? |
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D K Raju Says: |
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Have a customer in Chennai; Presidency club. Got an order for 24 cases, yet to be supplied. Secretary of the club tells me that couple of years ago, wine sale was about 2 % of total liquor sales, But to day it is 10%. I have about 45 customers active on our list. Education and promotion are key and we have certified Sommelier ( wset advanced course)on a full time and whose job is only to train hotel boys and conduct wine tasting and dining events. If I can get through the problems involved in wine lover getting his bottle from a decent retail store in Chennai, I can be busy supplying only to chennai market at least for two years before I think of other Indian markets. Awareness is spreading and what is needed is understanding of wines. |
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Subhash Arora Says: |
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I doubt if it is drinkable at all. But if you want to experiment for the sake of wine drinking community try a few drops. It won't kill you! If it has been lying opened for so may years, I'd throw it away. Arora |
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Sherwin Says: |
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I like to find out if there is an expiry date for Wincarins wine. I found an opened bottle 8/9 filled in my storeroom recently.I believed it was a gift in early 1970s |
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Subhash Arora Says: |
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I am sorry I have to disagree with totally. I love oloroso and palo cortado with tapas. But, as a match with Indian food, it's a big no-no, I believe. Yours is a perfect example of producers trying to hammer their wines with Indian food. It is one thing pairing for a competition- I was president of the jury at Vinoble 2010 wine competition recently and tasted some fabulous sherries entered, but they are not for Indian food as on today. Mind you my blog is restricted to the consumer scyche in India! Subhash |
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Warren Edwardes Says: |
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Or forget wine and food matching and go for Oloroso from Jerez. Just a small step from the compulsory Scotch. ;-) I am working on an (impossible) Sherry and Indian Cuisine matching menu for the Copa Jerez competition. I have a three course menu in development: first course with Manzanilla; main course with an Oloroso; and finally the dessert with a Pedro Ximenéz. |
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B.Shankaranarayan Says: |
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Subhash, I must share with you a very noteworthy incident. A few of us quite liked a particular red from Nashik and wanted to pick it up. So I sent a mail to PGC members. 18 club members ordered one case each! Repeats followed. In all the winery sold 25 cases to 20 buyers. Others bought a dozen each. I bet they are all drinking it at home. Had Nielsen done a study in Pune, "the wine consumption at home" statistic would have been quite different. Pune is where the action is.
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D K Raju Says: |
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Subhash, read it and your insight is great. Wine legend is thinking about ways to make wine and food compatible to Indians. Big players should address questions like this and bring in the transformation |
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Triple A Management Services Says: |
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Sir we are in the field of providing Security & Manpower Providing agency in retail industries in Uttrakhand State if you require please give us chance to us to provide the same |
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Maureen Kerleau Says: |
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A very realistic article Subhash. Hopefully a tip for would-be exporters to India to concentrate more on the wines that can be sipped purely for pleasure before the meal rather than to concentrate their efforts on mind-bending food-pairing. I did however try the Carmenere with curry experience at the London Wine Fair recently - you should give it a try Warren. Its rich, sweetness is somewhat overbearing on its own but similarly to a full-bodied Shiraz I find it an excellent match for rich meaty, not too over-chili dishes. |
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Subhash Arora Says: |
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Thanks. I was thinking more about the cheaper Rieslings available in India- the kind that have not yet developed the petrol/ diesel nose. Even Pinots from NZ would go better than the Premier or Grand Crus-they are far too elegant and expensive here, though the generic village appelllation wines from Bouchard and Drouhin etc are available in retail in India and are fairly adequate. Some peope would even love the Gewuerztraminer, though I believe it is more of a foreplay so far as Indian cuisine is concerned. Obviously, the choice is far and wide and experimentation is the key-once the kick off takes place. Subhash |
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Warren Edwardes Says: |
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Yes Off-dry Riesling from Germany and Beuajolais are great with curry. I alluded to them up on my "sweetness" and "no tannins" check list. But "diesel nose" Riesling is a love-hate. Many people not used to aged Riesling hate the diesel notes that typify the wine. BoJo and Pinot Noir are IMHO the best still reds, being low in tannin, with (mildly) spicy food. But not quite the refreshing wines I seek. |
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Subhash Arora Says: |
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That's great, Shankar! Congratulations. This is a good sign. It will help us all predict that the wine culture in Pune will continue to grow faster than the rest of the country- I think it has been over 50% annually, though on a small base. This is heartening and I hope we shall hear likewise from other states as well about their experience. Good luck. Subhash |
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B.Shankaranarayan Says: |
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Subhash, The answer to "how many of your members went home and had wine with the Indian food in the following month?". I think a great many do. Just last weekend at a friend's, all seven of us including two 80 year olds had wine and then a home cooked Indian meal. Some of us took the glass to the table, others did not. I'm working on how to create a home cooked Indian meal (by the host or the help)that can be accompanied by wine at the table. The key is lies in designing the appropriate menu.
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Nirmal Says: |
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when bharti retail is coming to UDAIPUR (RAJASTHAN) |
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kskarnic Says: |
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Dear Sri. Arora, You have rightly pointed out the drawbacks in the marketing strategy being followed most of the wine makers. Irrespective of the class Indians are fascinated over foreign made liquers than the the real healthy, sober and finer wine. Time is needed to convince he consumers about the advantages of wine over other drinks |
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Subhash Arora Says: |
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I agree. But you forgot two main wines, I think. Off-dry Riesling from Germany and Beuajolais (I recommend Cru Beaujolias as it gives the best value with the best quality it has to offer-otherwise Village is fine too). Even Verdicchio from Italy, Albarino from Spain are great-and the list is endless. We need to get into the habit. Incidentally, DNA was being melodramatic!!! Please remember I am not a priest but an evangelist.As we know, even in the US and Australia, wine was not a 'given' with food till a few decades ago. Subhash |
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Warren Edwardes Says: |
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Great article. But culture, perhaps, but DNA no. In the UK a few decades ago there was hardly any curry eaten. My recipe is REFRESHING = beer cold; naturally semi-sparkling (not gas injected like beer and frizzante rather than fully sparkling to leave room for food); no mouth-drying tannins (so no reds maybe rosés - or maybe some sweetness which offsets tannins) good nimboo pani like mouth-watering acidity; no oak as it leads to bitterness with cumin, coriander and ginger. some residual sugar as sugar calms chilli and chilli offsets sweetness. So a Champagne, Moscato, Brachetto, sparkling Shiraz or similar. |
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Subhash Arora Says: |
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You are absolutely right and I know your club is doing a wonderful job of promoting food and wine. Our wine dinners in Delhi Wine Club are a roaring success with 5 wines paired with food. We had a dinner at Hyatt with fusion Indian- a fabulous meal at the end of which we realised that no dal or roti had been served and no one missed it. We were the first ones in Delhi to organise a dinner at the Fire Restaurant at the Park with Gaja wines when Brindco started importing. We had iconic wines like Barbaresco as part of our 5-wine portfolio. But despite out explicitly requesting the chef, the food was so hot that it was a disaster as a match. Believe me, each dish was superb by itself. Therefore, while agreeing with you I'd like to know how many of your members went home and had wine with the Indian food in the following month. Not many-I am sure. It may be of interest to you that I am incorregible. the next dinner of Delhi Wine Club is at Diya Restaurant (Indian cuisine) in Hotel Leela Palace at Gurgaon. Subhash Arora |
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B.Shankaranarayan Says: |
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You are absolutely correct in your assessment. The answer to the big question - How to make Indians enjoy wine with food? - probably lies in reinventing the Indian meal to make it more suitable for consumption with wine. Before you know it, the plate with Indian food when served is full and the red you so wanted to enjoy with the rogan josh sits forlornly on the side. Nobody lingers over dinner to savour the meal. Once the plate is filled, the objective is to finish it asap. To see if we can actually consume wine with an Indian meal, I tried out an experiment in the Pune Gourmet Club. I announced a 25 course sit down dinnerwith pan India cuisine served by the course, paired with two whites and a red. Everyone had a blast. If in western cuisine, a main course can be paired with wine, why not in Indian cuisine? All one asks is to create dishes that do not overpower the wine but complement it. Our chefs need to give a light touch to our traditional dishes and get away from this cream-onion-tomato gravy fits all recipes. I have no doubt that in the coming years there Indian dishes will be enjoyed on their own, with a glass of wine. |
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Subhash Arora Says: |
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I agree. I have no doubt that Indian market has a great potential. This is a market which has a potential- where people are capable of drinking Chateau Latour or Lafite, Gaja or Sassicaia, Grange or Hill of Grace, Screaming Eagles or Harlan without knowing or caring what is inside the bottle once they know the social status involved withe these brands. But what I meant to empasise is that there are other more important means and channels of promoting the wine culture. Even pizza and beer is an accepted, popular combo whereas 'pizza and wine' still crawls due to not many promotions. We need to look at such channels more closely than matching wine with Indian food as the primary and secondary objective. And i must emphasize i am talking about India. Subhash Arora |
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Curtis Marsh Says: |
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It is indeed refreshing to read commentary on the reality of the India wine market, with wine producers around the world starting to believe the Asia markets are their Eldorado and a reality check much needed. On the positive side, I personally view Indian cuisine (in global terms)and subsequently the Indian wine market as the most exciting of all wine and food evolutions - it is a blank canvas with an infinite kaleidoscope of flavors and textures to explore. And with 514 million projected middle class people, I'm following this trajectory closely. Emphasizing the initiative of promoting wines by the glass as strategic cultural progression, consumers should take note of a watershed development in wine preservation with WineSave - without question the most full-proof and affordable way to facilitate wine by the glass without any spoilage or waste, both at home and restaurants. Cheers The Wandering Palate |
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Nainaz Shroff Says: |
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My Compliments to you. This is a fantastic read & article. You have touched on to a topic which has been very close to my heart and also as suggested is very Deep Rooted due our Indian Cultural Customs & Traditions. Having said that, I bet there is ample room for adventure and the never ending spirit to provide the same !! ...... All that's missing is perhaps A CLINK ;) |
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Adil Arora Says: |
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Very nice article. I have an iPad. Can it be downloaded on it too? Thanks. Adil Arora. |
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Devesh Kumar Says: |
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Nice to hear about Australian Chardonnay scaling up but i am sure nz is gonna device a plan to maintain high reputation of it's Sauvignon Blanc which is just the best of it's kind. when it comes to sauvignon blanc or white wine for that matter NZ Sauvignon Blanc is always going be the most saught after. |
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Vina La Rosa Says: |
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Dear Subhash: Was a pleasure your visit to Vina La Rosa in the Cachapoal Valley last month. Hope you had enjoyed our wines, you are welcome to come back any time. Best! Vina La Rosa team. |
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Subhash Arora Says: |
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Wouldn't I like to know!! Yes - a big pinch and a lot of iodine in the salt!!! Thanks for making a note of it. Subhash |
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Subhash Arora Says: |
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Good question. It would be nice to have them comment. I was told they transport them at night. In many countries, the grapes are harvested at night or early morning at these temperatures. I doubt if they use refrigerated trucks which is what they use in Chile. Subhash Arora |
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B.Shankaranarayan Says: |
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Wine making wisdom decrees that transit time from vineyard to winery should be minimal and in the coolest part of the day (early morning).Goa is 14 hrs away from Nashik by car & day temperatures in the harvesting season are quite high. Wonder what state the grapes are in when they reach Goa. Do they use temperature controlled trucks? |
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Aruna Pohl Says: |
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Hi Subhash, Would be interesting to know what was the sample size & profile of those surveyed. Also, what's your take on these results? Taken with a pinch of salt, I guess. |
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Pieter Louw Says: |
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Dear Subhash, It would be very interesting to to get info on India, Vietnam and Indonesian markets presented at conference. Who would be the correct institution and person to contact in this regard.
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RAJESH RK Says: |
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Hi and cheers, hope you and your family are doing fine..... luv and regards, rajesh, reshma, shreya and Himani. |
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J Jani Says: |
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Is it possible to get a list of all wine importers in Delhi. Regards JJ |
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Jagdish Chander Says: |
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Viticulture needs a great deal of help to promote growing best quality grapes for wine making. Wines are made from table grapes and not the rich sugar contents in India. Extra sugar is required to be added for creating good taste. Indian wines are generally acidic and we need additives to keep a balance in our wines. Besides indian wines lack aroma and bouquet or honey dew. Farmers have to provide proper manure and timely harvesting ripe fruits for winemaking. Our wine can be good if we grow better grapes. We have to do hard work to improve. Self praise is no recommendation. We give incentives and subsiies to industralists. Man in the vineyards is struglling for his survival and there is no assistance for hard work. There is also lack of viticulture experts in the newly grape growing areas and oenology specialists. We cannot find solution of these deficiencies and similar other problems individually Jagdish Chander
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Sylvia Cava Says: |
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Hi Subhash!! Thank you very much for all your support to our country. Really, I know your information from your website.web, because I´m in charge of Concours Mondial du Sauvignon in the first edition at Bordeaux! Douglas was human, and profesional....I had the opportunity to work with him...he is a legend now for all of us....He was a great support in all our activities for all the chilean wine industry around the world but sure...he prefered Asia. Thanks for your words, about my friend Douglas in your speech about Nestor in Hyatt seminar.Thanks!! Regards,
Sylvia Cava |
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Christian Blanco Says: |
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Dear Cavaliere. I am the Export Manager with Viña Casas del Bosque.We are very happy with the results we just obtained in the Catad’Or Hyatt with our Sauvignon Blanc’s and Pinot Noir’s. This is the confirmation of the results we have been getting consistently for the past years. I am currently looking for a business partner to establish a long term business relation in India to develop our brand. I completely trust in the potential and growth of the market and, even though it may not be an important wine market for Chile in terms of volumes, the projections are huge!!!
I have contacted some companies already. It would be great if you could give me your feedback and comments about the market and tell me what do you think would be a good approach. Thank you in advance for your consideration. Saludos cordiales,
Christian Blanco R., Export Manager - Europe, Asia- Viña Casas del Bosque, C H I L E www.casasdelbosque.cl |
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Sebastian Pollak Says: |
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Dear Subhash, I attended last Friday's Seminar at the Hyatt and found very good your exposition.
Unfortunately I had to run after the seminar as I would have liked to have a word with you.I was present with one of my wines in the IIWF Fair, Mumbai in March 2009 and had a great response from everyone who sampled it. Last year I went to New Delhi to meet the importer I have been having talks with since more than a year now, and could know more about the market and its current potential.
One of the issues I don't have very clear, and would really appreciate if you could enlighten me, is how the retail wine sales is developing? As I thought that, due mainly to the high cost of wine because of the high taxes, and the market target group wine is still oriented. No one buys wine on retail, but the current volume comes from the on-trade, being hotels and restaurants, and the "grey-market" being the people buying directly to the importers for home consumption or home parties and celebrations. Also, following one of the statements you said during your exposition, despite the many new importers that are appearing in the market, if you are not with one of the top 5-10 importers it's not worth to enter. Is that so? Sebastian Pollak, Export Manager VCG S.A. T.: + 56 2 750 4000 |
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Carlos Serrano Says: |
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Dear Subhash, Many thanks for your very nice article. It reflects perfectly our dear Douglas. He was our Marcopolo, our mentor and the iniciator of the modern history of Chilean wine in the World. He was not only a great sales person, he was passionate about wines, loyal, full of integrety and a great friend. We will miss him a lot. His spirit is all around us at Montes. Once again, many thanks. Carlos Serrano Export Director/Montes |
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Guillermo Soto Says: |
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Dear Subhash, Thanks for sharing all of that valuable information about exporting wines from Chile to India... we are much willing to do business with India and thank you in hopes of finding an interested importer. Best regards hoping to see again soon, Guillermo Soto www.swissamericanbeverage.com |
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Subhash Arora Says: |
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Contact the central excise office near the ITO building in Delhi- I do hope you are thinking of the license for Delhi |
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Lokesh Arora Says: |
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can you pls mail me the details of L-56 being issued by delhi excise. I shall be highly Greatful. |
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Subhash Arora Says: |
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Sorry for the delay in reacting as I am in Chile, judging at a wine competition and rather busy. Let me start by correcting you-the article was in no way a promo for Austria. There was no consideration and it was meant to be a source of information for some of our viewers like you who value WSET- and as an alternative to going to London and actually seeing Austrian vineyards many of which I have had the privilege of visiting. You talk of the importance of quality education being recognised now. I have been doing it in my own small way for the past 8 years. Incidentally, I met the Director of WSET at the London Wine Show about 6 years back with the objective of introducing in India but wanted them to give special rates for India. Not only did they not budge a penny, they insisted one had to buy the costly books for each level individually. I even bought books for the first 2 levels and going through the course realised the programme had nothing much to offer me unless I wanted to do the Diploma/MW.
I am not clear if you have done the Advance Course about which I have written-or the Diploma before MW in which case I salute you. When you become an MW, I shall bow to you like I do in front of over two dozen of MWs who are my personal friends. MW in the UK or MS in US are ultimate in terms of educational achievement-but doing the ‘Ph.D.’ in wine is not a necessary requirement for the Indian environment for most people. There are several other possibilities –which maybe even better. I wonder, how much they taught you about the Indian wine scenario in your course, for instance. Perhaps an Indian Wine Master-IWM based on the Cape Wine Master might be better suited. What we need right now is the basic, solid education with tasting for the masses and those in the F & B industry-at any rate, for people who are interested in wine appreciation and need to learn the basics quickly, rather than everyone aiming to become an MW or a WSET Diploma (level 4). I may add that I have been quite disappointed that the Indage project of setting up a college in collaboration with Adelaide University fell through. It would have been an excellent option and Chougules have done a big disservice to the Indian wine scenario by letting go of the opportunity in their greed to increase only the share prices.
There are surely going to be a lot of opportunities opening up and more choices will available soon-ball has already been set to roll. Even people like you would be contributing, I am sure. But please remember WSET may not be the panacea for the quality wine education in India. Thanks for your comments and Good Luck in your teaching objectives.
Subhash Arora, Santiago (Chile) |
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Chris Pohl Says: |
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Subhash needs to be complemented in sending this letter to the President for and on behalf of the Indian Wine Industry. We should not concern us with which country does or does not serve Wine at their State Dinners, but use the merit of serving Wine and the positive message it would send out. When leaders show acceptance and lead by example of moderate consumption - thus a glass of wine with a meal or per course would go a long way. It will definitely not make us a nation of alcoholics! It would be great to see Indian Wine at State functions! Wine as a generic will benefit hugely. |
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Ed Says: |
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Where can I buy wincarnis ginger wine in mumbai. |
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Christine Vitali Says: |
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Thank you Subhash for this sensitive and delicate article. I must say you are a great communicator and a great wine taster too. I'm living in Italy and am a sommelier. Your articles help me understand the ITALIAN wine world !! Thank you for this. Your endless admirator, Christine |
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TEJAL S PARGHI. Says: |
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PL. update me about the wine technology institutes near by mumbai and all information about it. THANKING YOU. TEJAL S PARGHI. |
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kskarnic Says: |
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It is quite surprising that suggestions are being made to encourage drunken driving.Whether law permits or not human life is valuble and no one can snatch away that either while driving drunk or not. It is time we promote human values ratner than wine and other liquers.
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Ashwini Avate Says: |
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Hello Mr Arora, Very interesting article! Congratulations to Mr Avatar Singh Sandhu and wishing him luck for a gold the next time! Cheers! |
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Maureen Kerleau Says: |
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Good luck to you and Claudio with this new venture (ps. I thought you were German, not South African !) |
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Ranjan Pal Says: |
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Completely agree with your views. It's high time that wine was given its true place and importance in India and we are missing an opportunity if we don't act on this right away. One suggestion would be to identify key wine-loving bureaucrats in the relevant ministries and invite them to select tastings so as to build support generally for this cause. |
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R R Says: |
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It is wrong o say that "others do it , so should we' Btw, the Govt of Canada does not allow alcohol to be served on any official event either. |
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Niladri Dhar, AIWS Says: |
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I came across a similar 'news' on another Indian wine website a few days ago and commented there too as this topic is close to my heart. Great to see that the importance of quality wine education is finally being recognised and is starting to receive much needed attention in the country. But wouldn't it be nice if leading wine proponents like your website (and a few others) actually use your influence to promote WSET courses in India rather than running a full-page promo for similar courses in a different country? Considering the rather embryonic nature of the Indian wine industry and the corresponding potential for growth, a sustainable wine education sector is of paramount importance. Let's emphasise once more; 'quality' wine education like the ones offered by the WSET. I have recently acquired my WSET Diploma and planning to go further in the near future. I'm open to suggestions and feedback on exploring opportunities in wine education in India. Let's bear in mind, 'Quality wine education is the key to success in unconventional markets' (this, co-incidentally, was the topic of my blog post recently!!). |
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Aruna Rangachar Pohl Says: |
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Dear Subhash, Well said! Needless to say, I am Ammirato's biggest fan in India currently, having sampled their excellent reds (specially Valpolicella Classico), olive oils & balsamico. It helps that Chris and Claudio weave their magic with words and gestures that enhance the Ammirato experience. So have you. Way to go! |
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Subhash Arora Says: |
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Battle of the Titans, Teresa!! I am glad I covered both the brands together!. It would be nice to have Carmen's comments from the Consejo Regulador with their official version and some stats to say who is right. Don't you think? I love both-especially the Palo Cortados. Subhash |
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Subhash Arora Says: |
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I agree with you-wholeheartedly, Sandeep. I strongly recommend NOT driving after drinking. I dont even recommend more than a couple of glasses of wine. But my remarks are addressed to the people <like Amy in this case>who insist on driving after drinking and drive rashly as the adraline flowing makes them do so. I dont take offence and I hope our viewers follow your advice strictly. Thanks. Subhash |
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Sandeep Mirchandani Says: |
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This is with reference to the blog: Wine and Drunken Driving published on the Indian Wine Academy website on Thursday, 01 July 2010 11:30.I have the highest regard for you and your in depth knowledge of wines. Without meaning any disrespect to you, it seems that you are (maybe unintentionally) suggesting to your esteemed readers, that it is OK to drink and drive as long as you drive slowly, take care and follow traffic rules.I mean it is true that, we at some point might have had a couple of drinks and still driven back home (I have also done it) but I feel it is wrong to suggest driving back slowly and cautiously, instead of leaving behind your car and taking a cab back home, especially on a public forum. Also, a person is breaking the law by drinking and driving, even if he obeys all traffic rules, does not cause an accident or kills or injures someone. And it is still wrong, even if you manage to hoodwink the cops. I just thought I should put across my thoughts to you. I do not mean any offense whatsoever. Thanks & Regards Sandeep. |
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Subhash Arora Says: |
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Thanks Isheeta. We will check it out at delWine and disseminate it as and when relevant. Subhash Arora |
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Isheeta Gupta Says: |
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Hi Subhash, Just wanted to let your readers know that there is a service in Delhi called Home Safe Drivers. You can hire a driver from them at the beginning of the evening (and you pay for 4 hours or more). No idea about what the charge is. I think it was 450. Alternatively, if you have driven yourself to a bar or a friends house and you need to be driven home, you can call them and they will send you a driver who will drive you home in your own car. Its better than taking a cab and having to go back to get your car the next day. And the charge for this home drop is only Rs 250. My friends have used the second option before and said they woudl definitely do it again. The numbers are 011-41051010 and 011-41052020. I believe there is a similar service in Bombay called Party Hard. |
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Teresa Aumesquet Says: |
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Hi Subhash!!!!! The aticle is fantastic, congratulations! You have become a specialist on sherry wine! It is perfect, apart from just one little detail: Tio Pepe is not the most exported brand of Sherry, it is Harveys Bristol Cream.It was wonderful to see you at Vinoble, I hope to see you again very soon!!!Best wishes,Teresa Aumesquet, Commercial Manager,Bodegas de Jerez, BEAM GLOBAL ESPAÑA, S.L. www.bodegasharveys.com |
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Curtis Marsh Says: |
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Reading your piece on PresorVac I would like to suggest both consumers and the hospitality industry seriously look at WineSave www.winesave.com This is 100 Argon and the future! Regards and Cheers! Curtis Marsh The Wandering Palate |
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Subhash Arora Says: |
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You will find most of the information on our website www.indianwineacademy.com and it is free. Otherwise you need to pay consultancy charges. Good thinking and good luck. |
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N.V. Pramod Says: |
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Dear Team, I'am planning to open a chain of Wine & Beer Cafes. Would like to know how to go about it right from inception, to cost of license etc., Rgds, Pramod 09448517218 |
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Ravi Says: |
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Dear Indian Wine Academy, Greetings for the day, I here by request you that to please provide me the statistics and market potential for all over India. Thanks in anticipation and look forward for your prompt reply. Regards, Ravi |
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Sureela Rao Says: |
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we are interested in contract farming for wine industry. kindly give us necessary input |
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Dr. Usha Srikanth Says: |
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Hi, I would like the contact info of the Pune chapter. Thx usha ** I enjoy reading your weekly notes. |
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Bahman Marzbani Says: |
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The amount of duties to import wines into is ridiculous. India should learn from China and open the market to one and all. This will force the Indian wine producers to produce better quality wines at competitive prices. If India wants to export its wine products and succeed, then it should have a two way street and not a one Indian way street. it takes two to shake hands. If Indian wines are very good, they should not be afraid of overseas competition. Indians are smart enough to buy "desi" wines at more affordable prices. |
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