Types of Wine Every Indian Enthusiast Should Explore

Over the past decade, India’s wine scene has matured—both in taste and accessibility. With more premium wine importers in India and curated selections offered by wine distributors, wine is no longer reserved for elite gatherings. It’s a part of modern lifestyle, culture, and cuisine.

As more Indians embrace wine, understanding wine types becomes essential—not just to enjoy the drink, but to pair it correctly, store it right, and build a refined palate. Whether you’re new to wine or looking to explore beyond the basics, this guide walks you through the types of wine every Indian wine enthusiast should explore.

1. Red Wine: Bold, Complex & Food-Friendly

Red wine is made from dark-skinned wine grapes and ranges from light and fruity to deep and tannic. It’s ideal for India’s rich cuisine—think curries, kebabs, or biryanis.

Must-Try Red Wines:

• Beronia Gran Reserva Red Wine – Known for its aged complexity, with notes of dark berries, spice, and vanilla. A great match with grilled lamb or paneer tikka.

• Casisano Brunello Di Montalcino DOCG Red Wine – A classic from Tuscany, with layers of cherry, tobacco, and oak. Ideal for formal dinners or celebrations.

Red Wine Tips:

• Serve slightly below room temperature (~16–18°C).

• Decant for 30 minutes to enhance aroma and taste.

2. White Wine: Crisp, Aromatic & Refreshing

White wine is made from green or light-skinned grapes and tends to be lighter in body with floral, citrus, or tropical fruit notes. It’s perfect for Indian summers and lighter meals like seafood, salads, or tandoori chicken.

Top Pick:

• Beronia Viura White Wine – A beautifully balanced white with zesty citrus notes and a hint of green apple. Excellent with fish curry or lemon-based dishes.

White Wine Tips:

• Chill before serving (~8–10°C).

• Pair with spicy foods to balance heat.

3. Rosé Wine: Fruity, Light & Versatile

Rosé wines are made by allowing red grape skins to remain in contact with the juice for a short time, creating a beautiful pink hue. These wines are perfect for brunches, poolside afternoons, or festive get-togethers.

What to Expect:

• Flavors of strawberry, melon, or citrus.

• Pairs well with grilled vegetables, pasta salads, and soft cheeses.

Rosé is gaining popularity among millennials and women in India thanks to its light body and easy drinkability.

4. Sparkling Wine: Bubbly Elegance for Celebrations

Sparkling wine is synonymous with celebration. It gets its bubbles from a second fermentation process and comes in varying sweetness levels—from dry (Brut) to sweet (Demi-Sec).

Although Champagne is most known, you can also explore Prosecco, Cava, or Indian sparkling wines like Sula Brut.

Pair With:

• Fried snacks, sushi, or even Indian mithai like rasgulla!

5. Port Wines: Rich, Sweet & Dessert-Friendly

Port wine is a fortified wine originally from Portugal, but it has a loyal fanbase in India due to its sweet taste and affordable pricing.

When to Drink:

• After meals as a dessert wine.

• With cheese platters or chocolate-based desserts.

Indian versions of port wines are popular in Goa and Karnataka, offering a nostalgic sip for many who began their wine journey here.

6. Vermouth: The Aromatic Mixer Gaining Popularity

Though not a traditional sipping wine, vermouth is finding fans among cocktail lovers and wine enthusiasts alike. Made with wine and infused botanicals, it’s versatile for aperitifs or mixers.

Try This:

• Dolin Blanc Vermouth – A white vermouth with herbal and floral notes. Enjoy it over ice with a twist of lemon or use in cocktails like Martinis or Negronis.

Choosing the Right Wine: A Few Tips

1. Understand Your Palate: Prefer sweet or dry? Bold or light? Knowing this narrows your search.

2. Think About Food: Match wine intensity with the dish. Bold reds for rich curries, whites for lighter fare.

3. Explore with an Open Mind: Wine is about exploration. Taste different wine types, regions, and grape varieties before settling on your favorite.

4. Ask the Experts: Visit wine shops or connect with sommeliers who can guide your wine choice based on your preferences.

The Role of Importers & Distributors

Today, premium wine importers in India and wine distributors make it possible to explore global wines without leaving the country. Whether you're shopping online or visiting upscale wine boutiques, you can find everything from Beronia Gran Reserva Red Wine to Dolin Blanc Vermouth with expert guidance.

This increased accessibility ensures that Indian consumers don’t just drink wine—they enjoy it with context, culture, and confidence.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're sipping a bold red, a delicate white, or a charming port, there's a world of flavor waiting to be explored. Understanding wine types helps you make informed choices and elevate your experience—whether it’s a solo sip after work or a grand celebration with friends.

So, raise your glass, explore new bottles, and make wine a part of your evolving lifestyle.


"This blog is intended for individuals of legal drinking age only. Please enjoy alcoholic beverages responsibly. Excessive consumption is harmful to health."