Explore Nashik’s Enchanting Wineries
If Indian travellers desired a wine tour 10-years ago, they would take a journey to the fascinating shores of France, California or Italy.
Fast-forward to this day, now Indians and international travellers can sample locally produced wines just outside of the major cities of India. And the best example is? Nashik – in the state of Maharashtra, near Mumbai – which has emerged as the “Wine Capital of India” over the past decade.
Nashik has been a significant city for centuries, especially known for its association with Hindu mythology and as a major pilgrimage destination. It might be an ancient city, but wine production is a fairly new thing for the region.
The idea of cultivating grapes for winemaking in Nashik started taking shape in the early 1990s when a few pioneering wineries set up operations. Today, Nashik boasts of over 50 wineries in the region!
Situated around 180 km from Mumbai, Nashik’s success in winemaking is attributed to its ideal geography. The region has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and relatively cooler nights, which is excellent for grape ripening. The altitude of Nashik, ranging from 450 to 600 meters above sea level, further enhances the grape quality. The soil here is well-drained, often composed of black soil with volcanic ash, which is perfect for growing high-quality grapes.
Several grape varieties thrive in Nashik, both international and Indian. Some of the most common varieties include:
These varieties, along with others, are crafted into wines that have started receiving international acclaim for their quality and distinctiveness.
Several wineries in Nashik have become internationally recognized for their contribution to the Indian wine industry for their high quality and distinctive flavours. Most of the wineries offer an immersive wine-tasting experience, luxurious stays, complete with food pairings and a relaxing atmosphere. The vineyards offer a scenic tasting room with a stunning view of the vineyards along with the surrounding hills & landscapes.
The wines from the region have been winning accolades at global wine competitions and are often considered on par with wines from well-established wine regions such as France, Italy, and Australia.
Local efforts to increase sustainable viticulture practices, eco-friendly production, and wine education are key trends that will shape the future of Nashik's wine industry.
At Worldwide Adventures, we offer guided tours with a Sommelier along with stories about the culture and heritage of this little town. Guests can learn about the winemaking process, enjoy the vineyard walks, and of course, sample a variety of wines.
Whether you're a connoisseur of fine wine or someone simply exploring the culture of wine, Nashik provides a perfect blend of ancient charm and modern flair.