Grape To Glass

Exploring the Chandon Winery in Dindori, Nashik

- ANITHYA BALACHANDRAN

Everyone remembers their first sip of alcohol, either fuelled by teenage rebellion or extreme curiosity, the first sip always makes you squirm. After my first sip, I simply couldn't understand why the world around me cherished these potent beverages so much. However, that changed drastically after my first glass of rosé. Nothing is more beautiful than the dewy pink fizzy liquid in a tall, crystal clear glass. It very quickly became my favourite type of wine and my go-to beverage order in almost all my culinary/bar experiences. I finally understood the love for alcoholic drinks and its enchanting charm. Safe say when I was invited by Chandon India to Dindori, Nashik for a day to explore their winery, I was ecstatic!

After soaking in the scenic views on my journey to the winery, I was greeted by an enthusiastic man, Kaushal Khairnar, upon my arrival. Kaushal is the head winemaker at Chandon India and is the kind of person who exudes joyful passion for his profession. He took us on an insightful tour of the winery, speaking about the different varieties of grapes, the intricacies of the winemaking process and how essential certain elements are in the production of high quality wine.