Waitrose introduces Indian Wine to the UK
1st September 2011

British retailer Waitrose is the first supermarket to stock wine from India. Having introduced Indian sparkling wine to the UK several decades ago, Waitrose has now launched the Ritu Viognier and Zampa Syrah, as demand for more exotic wines increases. The two wines, a red and a white, are made from traditional grape varieties grown in the Maharashtra region of Western India. Both wines are part of the Waitrose World of Wine Showcase: Ritu Viognier 2010, India is £6.99 (down from £8.99) and Zampa Syrah 2008, Nasik Valley, India is £8.49 (down from £10.99) until 11th October 2011.

Matt Smith, Waitrose wine buyer says: ‘The quality of Indian wine has improved a great deal over the last five years with investment and expertise pouring into the industry.'

'India has some ideal regions for grape-growing and it is exciting to be the first multiple retailer in the UK to showcase the quality this fascinating country has to offer. Taste and value are always of paramount importance to us when choosing new wines and these two wines deliver on both. We pride ourselves on the diversity of our wine and our customers love experimenting with new regions. Over the past two years we have featured wines from Croatia, Montenegro, Lebanon, Kosovo, Slovenia, Georgia, Morocco and now India, which has contributed to growth of over 50% for the 'Rest of the World' wine section at Waitrose over the last two years.'

The Ritu Viognier is a crisp, aromatic white wine with floral and peach aromas. Ritu (which means 'season' in Sanskrit) is crafted under the expert guidance of Abhay Kewadkar who has modelled his vineyard on a French chateau. The wine is well matched with classic spicy dishes. Zampa Syrah is a 100% Syrah produced by winemaker Nic Van Arde, in the dry, tropical climate of the Sahyadri Valley. It is a rich, dark-fruited red wine with a hint of pepper and a spicy finish.

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