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Showing posts with label WINES OF INDIA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label WINES OF INDIA. Show all posts

Tuesday, December 5, 2023

How the warm climatic conditions of India impacts the ageing of the Whisky?

 The aging process of whisky is influenced by various factors, and climate plays a significant role in this maturation. In warmer climates like India, the aging of whisky tends to occur more rapidly compared to cooler regions. Here are a few ways in which warm climatic conditions impact the aging of whisky:


Increased Interaction with Wood:

Warmer temperatures cause the wood in the barrels to expand and contract more rapidly. This fluctuation facilitates greater interaction between the whisky and the wood of the barrels. As a result, the whisky extracts flavors and compounds from the wood at a faster rate, contributing to a more rapid maturation process.


Higher Evaporation Rates (Angel's Share):

In warm climates, the rate of evaporation is higher, leading to a larger loss of whisky through what is commonly referred to as the "angel's share." This is the portion of whisky that evaporates from the barrels during aging. While this may result in a smaller final volume of whisky, it also intensifies the flavors and concentrations of the remaining liquid.


Intense Flavor Development:

The combination of increased interaction with the wood and higher evaporation rates can lead to intense flavor development. The whisky may acquire flavors from the wooden casks more quickly, resulting in a matured character in a shorter time frame.


Maturation Acceleration:

The warm temperatures accelerate the chemical reactions that contribute to the maturation process. Compounds in the whisky interact more actively with the wood, leading to changes in color, aroma, and flavor in a shorter time compared to whiskies aged in cooler climates.


Seasonal Variations:

In regions with distinct seasons, such as India, the fluctuation in temperatures throughout the year can further enhance the maturation process. The whisky expands into the wood during warmer seasons and contracts during cooler seasons, promoting a dynamic interaction with the barrel.


While the warm climate can contribute to a faster aging process and unique flavor profiles, it also poses challenges such as higher evaporation losses. Whiskies produced in warmer climates are sometimes labeled as "matured" or "aged" for a shorter duration compared to whiskies from cooler regions, as the impact of the climate on maturation is more pronounced.

My YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtEmIqoo7SW9iqEG1nM1s6w

Monday, September 4, 2023

What is the best way to pair Indian Food with wines?

 Pairing Indian food with wine can be a delightful experience, but it can also be challenging due to the complexity and variety of flavors in Indian cuisine. The best approach is to consider the specific flavors, spices, and heat levels of the dishes you are serving and match them with complementary wines. Here are some general guidelines for pairing Indian food with wine:


Balance the Heat:

Indian cuisine is known for its use of spices, which can range from mild to very spicy. For spicy dishes, opt for wines that have a touch of sweetness, as this can help balance the heat. Off-dry whites, like Riesling or Gewürztraminer, or slightly sweet reds, like a low-tannin Grenache, can work well.


Consider the Protein:

The type of protein in the dish matters. For lamb or beef dishes, consider robust red wines like Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Malbec. For chicken or seafood dishes, go for lighter white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.


Match Intensity:

Match the intensity of the wine with the intensity of the dish. For mild dishes like Chicken Korma, opt for a lighter wine, while for more robust flavors in dishes like Chicken Tikka Masala, you can choose a more full-bodied wine.


Regional Pairings:

Consider the regional origin of the dish. Indian cuisine varies significantly from one region to another. For example, dishes from Northern India might pair well with different wines than those from the South. Research the specific flavors of the regional cuisine you're serving.


Experiment with Sparkling Wine:

Sparkling wines, such as Champagne or Prosecco, can be surprisingly versatile when paired with Indian food. The bubbles and acidity can complement a wide range of flavors.


Herbs and Sauces:

Pay attention to the herbs and sauces used in the dish. Cilantro, mint, and yogurt-based sauces are common in Indian cuisine. Wines with herbal or citrus notes, like Sauvignon Blanc, can work nicely with such flavors.


Tandoori Dishes:

Tandoori dishes, which are cooked in a clay oven, often have smoky and charred flavors. Consider wines with a hint of smokiness, like a lightly oaked Chardonnay or a Syrah.


Dessert Pairings:

Indian desserts, like Gulab Jamun or Kulfi, can be very sweet. Pair them with sweet dessert wines like Sauternes or late-harvest Riesling.


Personal Preference:

Ultimately, personal taste plays a significant role in wine pairing. Experiment with different wines and find what you enjoy the most with your favorite Indian dishes.


Ask for Recommendations:

If you're dining at a restaurant, don't hesitate to ask the sommelier or staff for wine recommendations specific to the dishes you've ordered. They often have valuable insights.


Remember that wine pairing is a subjective art, and what works best for one person may not be the same for another. The key is to explore and find combinations that enhance your dining experience and bring out the best in both the food and the wine.



My YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtEmIqoo7SW9iqEG1nM1s6w


Saturday, August 5, 2023

How the Wine making started in the new world wine making countries?

 The history of wine-making in the New World wine-producing countries, such as the Americas, Australia, and New Zealand, is relatively recent compared to the Old World wine regions of Europe. Here's a brief overview of how wine-making started in some of these regions:


North America (United States):

Winemaking in the United States has roots dating back to the early European settlements, particularly with Spanish missionaries in California. In the late 18th century, Spanish missionaries established vineyards and began producing sacramental wines. However, it was in the mid-19th century that the modern wine industry began to take shape, with significant contributions from immigrants, particularly from wine-producing regions in Europe. The California Gold Rush in the mid-1800s brought a surge of people to the region, and some of these settlers established vineyards and wineries. The introduction of European grape varieties, improved viticultural practices, and advancements in winemaking techniques contributed to the growth of the industry. The wine industry in California faced challenges during Prohibition (1920-1933), but it rebounded afterward, and California is now one of the world's leading wine producers.


South America (Argentina and Chile):

The history of wine-making in South America is closely tied to Spanish colonization. Spanish conquistadors and missionaries introduced vine cultivation and wine production to regions like Argentina and Chile in the 16th century. The Catholic Church played a significant role in the early establishment of vineyards for sacramental wine production. Over time, European immigrants, including Italians and French, brought their expertise and expanded the industry. Both Argentina and Chile have since become major players in the global wine market, known for their distinctive varietals like Malbec and Carmenère.


Australia:

The beginnings of wine-making in Australia can be traced back to the late 18th century when British settlers arrived. In 1788, Captain Arthur Phillip, the first governor of New South Wales, brought vine cuttings from Europe to establish vineyards for the British colony. Early attempts at wine production faced challenges due to unfamiliar climates and soil conditions. However, by the mid-19th century, German and other European immigrants began to successfully cultivate vineyards and produce wine, leading to the establishment of regions like the Barossa Valley in South Australia. Australian wine gained international recognition in the 20th century and is known for its diverse range of styles.


New Zealand:

Winemaking in New Zealand has more recent origins, starting in the mid-19th century. British colonists, especially in the North Island, began experimenting with grape cultivation and wine production. However, it wasn't until the latter half of the 20th century that the industry gained significant momentum. The 1970s and 1980s saw a surge in vineyard plantings and the introduction of new grape varieties, such as Sauvignon Blanc. New Zealand's distinct terroir and innovative winemaking practices have since helped it become known for its high-quality, cool-climate wines.


These New World wine regions have continued to evolve, adopting modern viticultural techniques and producing wines that reflect both their unique terroir and the influence of their Old World predecessors.


South Africa:

The history of wine-making in South Africa dates back to the mid-17th century when Dutch settlers, known as the Cape Dutch, established the Cape Colony. Jan van Riebeeck, the colony's first commander, planted the first vineyards in the area around 1655. Initially, wine production was focused on providing wine for the Dutch East India Company's ships, as well as for the local population. The industry gradually grew, and French Huguenot refugees brought their winemaking knowledge to the region in the late 17th century, further contributing to the development of viticulture. Over time, South Africa faced challenges such as phylloxera and political upheavals, but it has emerged as an important wine-producing country with a diverse range of grape varieties and styles.


Canada:

Winemaking in Canada has a history that dates back to the 1600s when early French settlers, particularly in Quebec, began cultivating grapes and producing wine for local consumption. However, the modern Canadian wine industry really began to take shape in the mid-20th century, with significant contributions from British Columbia and Ontario. The wine regions in these provinces benefited from a combination of factors, including favorable climate conditions, advancements in cold-hardy grape varieties, and improved winemaking techniques. Canada is now known for its ice wines, made from grapes that have frozen on the vine, resulting in intensely sweet and flavorful wines.


Other New World Regions:

Various other countries have also established wine industries in the New World. Countries like Uruguay, Brazil, and Mexico have made strides in recent decades, with a focus on both traditional and innovative grape varieties. These regions often draw on the expertise of winemakers from established wine-producing countries to develop their own unique styles.


In all of these New World wine regions, the journey of wine-making has involved a combination of historical influences, immigrant contributions, experimentation, and adaptation to local conditions. As these countries continue to refine their winemaking practices and showcase their unique terroirs, they contribute to the global diversity and appreciation of wine.



My YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtEmIqoo7SW9iqEG1nM1s6w


Friday, August 4, 2023

What are the important factors affecting Wine?

 Several important factors can significantly affect wine production, quality, and taste. These factors can be divided into two main categories: natural factors and human factors.


Natural Factors:

a. Climate: Climate plays a crucial role in determining the grape variety that can be grown in a specific region and the overall grape ripening process. Cooler climates produce wines with higher acidity and lower sugar levels, while warmer climates lead to riper grapes with higher sugar content.


b. Soil: Different types of soil can impart unique mineral characteristics to the grapes, affecting the wine's flavor and aroma. Factors like drainage, fertility, and composition can all influence grape quality.


c. Topography: Altitude and slope orientation affect temperature, sunlight exposure, and wind patterns. These variables influence grape maturation and can impact the wine's acidity, aromas, and tannin levels.


d. Microclimate: Within larger wine regions, smaller microclimates can exist, allowing for the cultivation of specific grape varieties or producing unique wine styles.


e. Grape Variety: The choice of grape variety is fundamental to the style and characteristics of the wine. Different grape varieties have distinct flavors, acidity levels, tannin structures, and aging potentials.


f. Weather: Year-to-year variations in weather conditions, such as temperature, rainfall, and humidity, can significantly influence the quality of the grape harvest and, subsequently, the resulting wine.


Human Factors:

a. Viticulture Practices: Vineyard management techniques, such as pruning, trellising, irrigation, and canopy management, impact grape health, yield, and quality.


b. Harvesting: The timing of the grape harvest is crucial. Picking grapes at the optimal level of ripeness is essential to producing balanced and high-quality wine.


c. Winemaking Techniques: Decisions made during the winemaking process, such as crushing, fermentation, maceration, barrel aging, and blending, greatly influence the final wine's characteristics.


d. Fermentation: Different yeast strains, fermentation temperatures, and vessel types can impact the wine's flavor, body, and aromas.


e. Aging: The choice of aging vessel (e.g., oak barrels or stainless steel tanks) and the duration of aging influence the wine's complexity, texture, and aging potential.


f. Bottling: Proper handling, filtration, and bottling techniques are essential to preserving the wine's quality and preventing spoilage.


g. Storage and Transportation: Proper storage conditions, temperature, humidity, and light exposure are vital to maintain the wine's integrity from the winery to the consumer.


h. Marketing and Sales: Wine branding, marketing strategies, and distribution channels can impact the perception and popularity of a wine.


By understanding and managing these factors effectively, winemakers can produce wines that showcase the unique characteristics of their vineyards and regions.



My YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtEmIqoo7SW9iqEG1nM1s6w


Friday, May 26, 2023

International Chardonnay Day

 International Chardonnay Day is a day dedicated to celebrating the Chardonnay grape variety, one of the most popular and widely planted white wine grapes in the world. Chardonnay Day is typically observed on the Thursday before Memorial Day weekend in the United States, which means the specific date may vary from year to year.


On International Chardonnay Day, wine lovers and enthusiasts around the world come together to appreciate and enjoy the unique characteristics and flavors of Chardonnay wines. It is a day to raise awareness about Chardonnay as a varietal and to explore the different styles and expressions of this versatile grape.


Many wine producers, vineyards, and wine-related establishments organize special events, tastings, and promotions to mark International Chardonnay Day. These activities often include Chardonnay tastings, vineyard tours, food pairings, and educational sessions about Chardonnay winemaking and its various regional styles.


Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or just beginning to explore the world of wine, International Chardonnay Day is a fantastic opportunity to indulge in a glass of Chardonnay and appreciate its diverse range of flavors, which can vary from crisp and citrusy to rich and buttery, depending on the winemaking techniques used and the terroir of the vineyard.


International Chardonnay Day is celebrated annually on the Thursday before the last Monday in May. This year, it falls on May 25, 2023. Chardonnay is a white grape variety that is grown in many different countries around the world. It is used to make a variety of different wines, from dry to sweet, and from light to full-bodied. Chardonnay is a popular wine choice for many people because it is versatile and can be paired with a wide variety of foods.


There are many different ways to celebrate International Chardonnay Day. You could open a bottle of your favorite Chardonnay and enjoy it with friends or family. You could also visit a local winery and learn more about the production of Chardonnay wine. Or, you could simply raise a glass to this delicious and versatile grape variety.


Here are some fun facts about Chardonnay:


Chardonnay is thought to have originated in Burgundy, France.

Chardonnay is the most widely planted white grape variety in the world.

Chardonnay can be made into a variety of different styles of wine, from dry to sweet, and from light to full-bodied.

Chardonnay is a popular wine choice for many people because it is versatile and can be paired with a wide variety of foods.

So, raise a glass to Chardonnay on International Chardonnay Day! Cheers!







Tuesday, February 21, 2023

Food Blogging with ChatGPT

 As a language model, ChatGPT can't directly change food blogging, but it can certainly assist and provide value to food bloggers in a few ways:


Content creation: ChatGPT can assist food bloggers in creating engaging and unique content by suggesting new and creative recipe ideas, providing relevant research and statistics about food trends, and helping bloggers develop their writing style.


Recipe optimization: ChatGPT can analyze existing recipes and help optimize them for nutritional content, taste, and ease of preparation. It can also suggest ingredient substitutions for specific dietary needs or restrictions.


SEO optimization: ChatGPT can provide tips and suggestions on how to optimize food blog content for search engines, helping bloggers improve their website's visibility and attract more traffic.


Community engagement: ChatGPT can help food bloggers engage with their audience by providing personalized recommendations based on their preferences and interests. It can also facilitate communication with followers through chatbots or social media platforms.


Overall, ChatGPT can be a valuable tool for food bloggers looking to enhance their content, improve their online presence, and build a stronger connection with their audience.




Sunday, August 20, 2017

Indian Wine industry adapts to global standards

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The Indian wine industry is coming of age. The country was recently invited by the International Organization of Vine and Wine (OIV) to be part of the worldwide process to decide on international labelling norms and standardising Codex specifications for the industry globally. Yatin Patil, president, All-India Wine Producers Association (AIWPA), who is back in India after attending the meet in Paris, said several discussions are now taking place for consolidating a set of norms for processing aids and additives in wines as well as understanding labelling norms. He was nominated by the Ministry of Food Processing to represent Indian interests and perspectives at the meet.
OIV, a group of government bodies of elected member countries, currently has 46 members with Armenia being the latest addition. India joined the OIV in July 2012 and became the 44th member of the organisation. The member states represent 85% of wine production in the world.  OIV director general Jean- Marie Aurand recently visited India when the issue of India’s membership to the OIV was discussed and the Indian membership has been renewed.
In India, FSSAI is following Codex specifications. OIV is an observer in that organisation and is likely to be appointed in the Codex committee for additives. While codex standards regard food safety, OIV standards are benchmarks for correcting the faults in wine and improving the quality of wines.
The OIV is an inter-governmental organisation of a scientific and technical nature of recognised competence for its works concerning vines, wine, wine-based beverages, table grapes, raisins and other vine-based products and is based out of Paris.
India is the fifth-largest producer of eating grapes and resins. Adhering to international standards – which OIV helps establish – is very important for exports.  Although India’s production and consumption is still low, Consumption is increasing and in 10 years India is expected to be a big player in the wine sector. At present, almost two of every five bottles consumed in the world are imported (over 40%). Ten years ago it used to be 25%. The increasing international trade has made the international wine standards very important and India could derive a lot of benefits by being actively involved in the working and deliberations.
Earlier, India had also attempting to join the WWTG (World Wide Trade Group) of Washington DC, an informal grouping of industry representatives from wine-producing countries. India participated as an observer in an important meeting of WWTG in Washington around three years ago. While the OIV membership helped India get access to the state-of-the-art scientific knowledge about vines, wines and grapes, WWTG members that include Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, New Zealand, South Africa and the US can help India in trade.
Patil said that the 40th World Congress of Vine and Wine and the 15th General Assembly of the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV) will be held in Sofia, Bulgaria, from May 29 to June 2, 2017 and India is expected to attend this meet. There are around 110 wineries in India (including 72 in Maharashtra) with the industry size being pegged at around Rs 2,000 crore. However, Supreme Court’s decision to ban sale of liquor along the highways is a setback.
According to Rajdheer Jadhav, a wine industrialist from Nashik, around 70% of the hotels and restaurants are located along highways and ban of this nature would affect the industry badly. Jagdish Holkar, former chairman, India Grape Processing Board, said wine should be treated differently and the Indian Tourism Board should also look seriously into the issue as this could adversely impact the country’s tourism.

Source: http://www.sommelierindia.com/indian-wine-industry-adapts-to-global-standards/

Monday, December 21, 2009

MAJAOR INDIAN WINERIES

SULA WINES
CHATEAU INDAGE
GROVERS
VINSURA WINES
SANKALP WINES
RENAISSANCE WINES
ND WINES
VINICOLA
VINTAGE WINES
MANDALA WINES
FLAMINGO WINES
FOUR SEASONS WINES

MAJOR GRAPE VARIETIES - INDIA

Variety
Area (ha)
Production (t)
Anab-e-Shahi (white, seeded)
3,000
135,000
Bangalore Blue Syn. Isabella (black, seeded)
4,500
180,000
Bhokri (white, seeded)
500
15,000
Flame Seedless (red, seedless)
500
10,000
Gulabi Syn. Muscat Hamburg (purple, seeded)
1,000
30,000
Perlette (white, seedless)
1,500
60,000
Sharad Seedless - A mutant of Kishmish Chorni (black, seedless)
1,000
20,000
Thomson Seedless and its mutants (white, seedless)
22,000
550,000
Total
34,000
1,000,000

WINE REGIONS OF INDIA

Vineyards in India range from the more temperate climate of the northwestern state of Punjab down to the southern state of Tamil Nadu. Some of India's larger wine producing areas are located in Maharashtra, Karnataka near Bangalore and Andhra Pradesh near Hyderabad. Within the Maharashtra region, vineyards are found on the Deccan Plateau and around Baramati, NashikPuneSangli and Solapur. The high heat and humidity of the far eastern half of the country limits viticultural activity.

MAP OF INDIA


WINES OF INDIA

India has forever remained a land of dichotomies. It has always perceived a notion in almost two totally paradoxical perspectives. And wine or liquor is no exception to this rule. When on one hand it was a drink of festivities; it was also considered a forbidden affair for the society at large. Drink was considered as a ‘Taamasi’ food that is always subject to repudiation as it only results in bad thoughts and behaviour. But it was never shunned completely and pervaded every spatial and temporal dimension.
Since the very inception Indians had the native familiarity with Wine. This becomes apparent with the artifacts found at the sites of Harappan Civilization. During the Vedic period wine was often referred to as Somarasa; it was believed to be associated with Indra, and was a part of religious festivals. Soma is mentioned in Vedic scriptures as well. Also the reference of Drakshasava is found in ayurvedic texts which was basically a delicious digestive preparation made from ripened red grapes, cinnamon, cardamom, nagkesara, vidanga, tejpatra, pippali, and black pepper and contained natural alcohol.

Indian wine is wine made in the Asian country of IndiaViticulture in India has a long history dating back to the time of the Indus Valley civilization when grapevines were believed to have been introduced from PersiaWinemaking has existed throughout most of India's history but was particularly encouraged during the time of the Portuguese and British colonization of the subcontinent. The end of the 19th century saw the phylloxera louse take its toll on the Indian wine industry followed by religious and public opinion moving towards the prohibition of alcohol. Following the country's independence from the British Empire, the Constitution of India declared that one of the government's aims was the total prohibition of alcohol. Several states went dry and the government encouraged vineyards to convert to table grape and raisin production. In the 1980s and 1990s, a revival in the Indian wine industry took place as international influences and the growing middle class increased started increasing demand for the beverage. By the turn of the 21st century, demand was increasing at a rate of 20-30% a year.
 

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