Not all Indian food is fiery and loaded with chilies. While spices play a key role, they don’t always mean heat. Chilies, for instance, only arrived in India from the Americas in the 16th century. Indian cuisine features a richness of flavors and seasonings that can make pairing with wine a bit tricky.
India does produce wine using local grapes like Anabeshi and Arkavati, but the most common variety is the Turkish Sultana, known as Thompson Seedless. Although wine consumption is growing among the middle class, it holds a mere 2% of the Indian alcohol market. Alcohol laws vary from state to state, and wine can be pricey, especially when imported. Many Indian wines also tend to be on the sweeter side.
International wine varieties are slowly making their mark in India. For example, popular options include Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, and Syrah. In places like Mumbai, trendy spots such as The Bombay Canteen offer a mix of Indian and international wines. Dishes at upscale restaurants, like The Table, showcase wines like Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon, highlighting diverse options for diners.
When it comes to pairing wine with Indian dishes, full-bodied reds and whites work best. The robust flavors in dishes like butter chicken and vindaloo match well with wines that have a strong presence. For white wines, options like Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc bring a refreshing element without overpowering the food. Sparkling wines are also a fantastic choice, especially alongside tandoori dishes.
While lighter reds such as Chianti might not stand up to the spices, dessert wines like Port pair beautifully with sweet treats like ras malai and kulfi. Personally, I often find beer complements Indian food nicely, but certain wines are quite enjoyable too. Here are a few favorites:
Stewart Sauvignon Blanc 2023 ($36): This Napa Valley choice is fermented in stainless steel for a crisp taste. With 12.9% alcohol, it’s perfect for balancing the bold flavors of Indian seafood and biryani.
Larkmead Lillie Sauvignon Blanc 2023 ($75): This more robust option has 14.3% alcohol and a tropical taste due to barrel fermentation. It pairs well with potato-filled dosas, adding depth to the meal.
Château Malherbe Grand Vin Blanc 2021 ($55): Made from Rolle and Semillon grapes in Provence, this biodynamic blend delivers a smooth texture and goes nicely with creamy yogurt-based dishes.
Inman Family Wines OGV Estate Brut Rosé 2023 ($80): This elegant sparkling wine made from Pinot Noir is refreshing and works beautifully with dishes like mulligatawny soup.
Penfolds Bin 600 Cabernet Shiraz 2021 ($50): This red wine combines rich Cabernet with the bright fruit of Shiraz. It’s an excellent choice for hearty dishes like lamb vindaloo, enhancing the overall dining experience.
