Top 17 Red Wine Brands In India Revealed By A Wine Expert

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If I were to choose my choice of wine, it would always be red. I love the heaviness and dryness that most red wines bring to the table. However, I've noticed myself constantly going back to the same brand again and again. So, in a bid to experiment a bit more with red wine this year, I've turned to Apurva Gawande to tell us the top red wine brands to try out. 

With a Diploma in Wine & Management Studies from Le Cordon Bleu, Apurva is passionate about demystifying the world of wines, fostering deep appreciation, and providing world-class wine experiences, making the world of wines accessible and enjoyable in India. They're also one of India's ten holders of the coveted Diploma from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET).

They say, "In recent times, India's red wine market has experienced significant expansion, unveiling a range of outstanding domestic wines that excel in quality and taste. With a perfect amalgamation of tradition and innovation, Indian winemakers have successfully crafted wines that can rival those from renowned wine-producing countries." Here's a list of the best red wines in India.


Chandon AURVA

Chandon Aurva

Chandon Aurva

4249

This has to be one of the best red wines on the list. “Aurva” translates to ‘of the earth’ in Sanskrit, paying tribute to the land and mythic beauty of the unique terroir of Nashik, Maharashtra. Concentrating on one harvest per year the winemakers imposed a selective approach that allows focus on the quality, freshness and integrity of the grapes. Meticulously crafted using 100% locally sourced Shiraz grapes that are carefully hand-harvested by CHANDON partner growers, Aurva is aged in French oak barrels for fourteen months. CHANDON Aurva offers a symphony of rich aromas, velvety smoothness, and flavours of cloves, cherry, blueberry and plum.

Price: INR 4,250

Rating: N/A

Alcohol content: 14%

Winery: Produced by Chandon India, specifically at their Dindori winery in Nashik, Maharashtra

Grape variety: 100% Shiraz

LBB Pro tip: If you prefer white wine, check out this list.

Fratelli J’noon

fratelli J'noon Red

fratelli J'noon Red

4500

Established in 2007 in Akluj, India, by the Secci brothers and renowned winemaker Piero Masi, Fratelli marries tradition with innovation. The J’Noon Red is a blend of Petit Verdot/Marselan and Cabernet Franc, with Cabernet Sauvignon being the backbone. The deep purple hue and rich flavours of black fruits with structured tannins, full body, and a long, silky finish are crafted by the Petit Verdot, Marselan, and Cabernet Franc grapes. Transporting us to the right bank of Bordeaux, the wine showcases notes of spearmint and graphite complemented by a backdrop of cedar and fresh tobacco, creating a truly exquisite experience. This best red wine must be added to your cart STAT!

Price: INR 4,500

Rating: 4.0/5

Alcohol content: 

Winery: Fratelli Wines

Grape variety: A blend of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot

KRSMA Syrah 2019

KRSMA Syrah

KRSMA Syrah

1645

In 2016, KRSMA revealed their first Syrah wine. Krsma wines are not a product of a laid-down recipe; each bottle of these vintage wines is unique in its own way. The 2019 vintage is aged for 14 months in new and old oak barrels offering the flavour of kirsch, cranberries, figs, toast and baking spices. At 13.9% abv, this wine can be consumed slightly chilled to ensure maximum enjoyment.

Price: INR 2,000 (approx.)

Rating: 3.7/5

Alcohol content: 11.6% alcohol by volume

Winery: KRSMA Estates

Grape variety: 100% Syrah​

LBB Pro tip: If you're looking for some bar accessories to amp your wine game, here are some of the top accessories you can add to your shopping list.

Sula Rasa Zinfandel

Sula Rasa Zinfandel

Sula Rasa Zinfandel

1595

If you are a lover of a big, bold, juicy red wine, then this one’s for you! While Sula is known for its relatively affordable and easily likeable wines, this Zin is here to impress. Crammed with an array of juicy blueberry, blackberry and redcurrant aromas alongside pretty violets and notes of vanilla, clove, chocolate and pepper, this Zinfandel is vibrant and plush with a textural, almost creamy mouthfeel. Medium-bodied with soft tannins, it’s a great way to end your day.

Price: INR 1,595

Rating: 4.2/5

Alcohol content: 13.5%

Winery: Sula Vineyards

Grape variety: Zinfandel​

Vallonne Merlot Reserve

Vallonne Merlot Reserve

Vallonne Merlot Reserve

1870

A small boutique winery tucked away in the Igatpuri region, Vallonné Vineyards prides itself in making varietally focused wines. This Merlot Reserve is a full-bodied wine with a deep garnet colour. From the nose to the palate, it is redolent of flavours of red berries, dark chocolate, cigar, spice and toast and has creamy, velvety tannins. We have yet to meet a red wine lover who has tried this wine and has not thought this is a marvellous wine! 

Price: INR 1,500 (approx)

Rating: 4.1/5

Alcohol content: 14% alcohol by volume

Winery: Vallonne Vineyards

Grape variety: Merlot

LBB Pro tip: To know more about the different types of wines, check out this list.

Sula Vineyards Dindori Reserve Shiraz

Sula Vineyards Dindori Reserve Shiraz

Sula Vineyards Dindori Reserve Shiraz

1250

Sula Dindori Reserve Shiraz, a robust red from the Sula portfolio, is 95% Shiraz and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. Sourced from a single vineyard in Nashik's Dindori region, it is matured in American oak for 12 months, imparting sweet coconut and smoky notes. On the nose, the wine has pronounced aromas of ripe dark cherry, sweet spices and a hint of vanilla. Rich dark fruits follow through on the full-bodied palate, with silky tannins and a long finish.

Price: INR 1,250

Rating: N/A

Alcohol content: 14%

Winery: Sula Vineyards

Grape variety: 90% Shiraz, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Viognier

Grover Zampa Signet Shiraz (Amphora)

Grover Zampa Signet Shiraz - Amphora

Grover Zampa Signet Shiraz - Amphora

4000

While most of us were busy experimenting with dolgana coffee and banana bread during the pandemic, Grover Zampa Vineyards was quietly experimenting with grapes and casks to create its premium Signet collection. Fermented and aged for 12 months in terracotta clay Amphora, this red wine runs a deep garnet red. The porous structure of terracotta clay allows micro-oxygenation, which helps to soften the tannins, giving a deep and rich structure without additional flavours. The wine is surprisingly aromatic for a robust red with notes of sweet dark fruits and flowers.

Price: INR 4,000 (approx.)

Rating: N/A

Alcohol content: 14% alcohol by volume

Winery: Grover Zampa Vineyards

Grape variety: Shiraz

Reveilo Nero d’Avola

Reveilo Nero D'Avola

Reveilo Nero D'Avola

845

Made from the indigenous Sicilian grape variety Nero d'Avola, this wine is medium bodied with strong fruity aromas of cherry accompanied with some spicy notes of pepper and cinnamon. It is a young wine with a long finish. Since its first vintage in 2006, the winery has believed in making wines that showcase quality over quantity.

LBB-tip: If you are vegan, then this wine is for you! 

Price: INR 845

Rating: 4.0/5

Alcohol content: 14.5%

Winery: Reveilo Wines

Grape variety: Nero d'Avola

Pro tip: If you are a fan of Rose wines, try out these top ones.

Good Earth Antaraa

Good Earth Antaraa

Good Earth Antaraa

900

Promoting the magic of music, the wine is named after Antaraa, literally meaning the second note in Hindustani classic music. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz from the vineyards in Dindori, it showcases concentrated aromas of plums, black currant and spice. With 75% of the wine aged in medium toasted French oak for twelve months, it is well-structured, with velvety tannins highlighting rich red fruit flavours and an elegant finish.

Price: INR 900 (approx.)

Rating: N/A

Alcohol content: 13.5%

Winery: Good Earth Winery

Grape variety: 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Shiraz

Anokhee Cabernet Sauvginon Grand Reserve 2019

Vallonne Vineyards Anokhee Cabernet Sauvginon

Vallonne Vineyards Anokhee Cabernet Sauvginon

2685

Vallonne Vineyards, established in 2009 in Nashik Valley, India, has gained acclaim for its Anokhee Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Reserve 2019. This exquisite wine, grown with estate-grown grapes, showcases the region's unique terroir, blending tradition with innovation. The deep ruby hue introduces an enticing bouquet of blackberries, cassis, and subtle notes of vanilla. On the palate, the wine unfolds with layers of ripe fruit, refined tannins, and a lingering finish, embodying the finesse associated with Cabernet Sauvignon.

Price: INR 2,500 (approx.)

Rating: 3.6/5

Alcohol content: 14%

Winery: Vallonné Vineyards

Grape variety: Cabernet Sauvignon

Sula Rasa Shiraz

Sula Rasa Shiraz

Sula Rasa Shiraz

1930

Sula Rasa is one of India’s best red wines that gives a rich and warm taste that lingers on the palate. If you're a lover of fruity and earthy flavours, Sula Rasa is right up your alley. Aged in French oak barrels for 12 months, this wine has smokey and dark fruit undertones. What's more? It can be perfectly paired with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, like spicy Indian dishes and lamb.

Price: INR 1,930

Rating: 4.5/5

Alcohol Content: 13.5%

Grape Variety: Shiraz

Winery: Sula Vineyards, Nashik

Pro tip: Here are the best homegrown wine brands under INR 2,000

Fratelli Sette

Fratelli Sette

Fratelli Sette

2221

Fratelli Sette is one of the finest red wines India has to offer. Made by blending Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, it offers a complex flavour that tastes like ripe cherries, spices, and a dash of tobacco, coupled with a smooth, velvety finish. It pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats and mature cheeses. 

Price: INR 2,220

Rating: 4.7/5

Alcohol Content: 14%

Grape Variety: Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon

Winery: Fratelli Vineyards, Akluj, Maharashtra

York Arros

York Arros

York Arros

2500

If you're looking for a silky red wine, York Arros is the right red for you. A carefully balanced blend of Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon, it delivers a full-bodied experience. Rich in aromas of black fruits, spice, and a hint of vanilla, this specific red undergoes 12 months of oak aging, which enhances its complexity. It's an excellent choice for those who relish robust red wines that can be paired with tandoori meats as well as biryani.

Price: INR 2,500

Rating: 4.4/5

Alcohol Content: 13.3%

Grape Variety: Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon

Winery: York Winery, Nashik

Reveilo Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

Reveilo Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

Reveilo Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

1495

Reveilo’s Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is a rich and velvety red with notes of dark cherries, blackcurrant, and hints of vanilla, thanks to oak aging. Known for its elegance and balance, this wine pairs well with grilled vegetables, red meats, and pasta dishes. 

Price: INR 1,495

Rating: 4.3/5

Alcohol Content: 13.5%

Grape Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon

Winery: Reveilo Vineyards, Nashik

Pro tip: Looking for the best food and homegrown wine combinations? Check it out here.

Charosa Tempranillo Reserve

Charosa Tempranillo Reserve

Charosa Tempranillo Reserve

1499

A unique offering from Charosa Vineyards, the Tempranillo Reserve brings Spanish flair to the Indian wine scene. With a vibrant ruby-red colour and aromas of blackberries, cherries, and spices, this medium-bodied wine has a smooth finish with soft tannins. It’s a great choice for pairing with tapas, Indian grills, and Mediterranean dishes.

Price: INR 1,400

Rating: 4.2/5

Alcohol Content: 13.5%

Grape Variety: Tempranillo

Winery: Charosa Vineyards, Nashik

Big Banyan Merlot

Big Banyan Merlot

Big Banyan Merlot

799

If you're a novice Indian connoisseur of red wines, Big Banyan Merlot is sure to please. This wine offers smoothness and soft, velvety tannins, making it easy on the palate. With its plummy finish, it’s perfect for sipping on a warm evening at home or enjoying on a date night with your partner. Its luscious flavour pairs beautifully with grilled meats, vegetables, and pasta. 

Price: INR 800

Rating: N/A

Alcohol content: 13%

Winery: Big Banyan Wines, Bangalore

Grape variety: Merlot

Four Seasons Barrique Reserve Shiraz

Four Seasons Barrique Reserve Shiraz

Four Seasons Barrique Reserve Shiraz

One of the best Indian red wines on the market, this complex, full-bodied wine has received several accolades for its exceptional taste. Its enticing aroma and violet hue make it one of the most appealing reds available. Perfectly paired with fine cuisine, there’s no better time to treat yourself to a glass during fall season, and embrace the festive spirit!

Price: INR 1,800

Rating: 4.2/5

Alcohol content: 14.5%

Winery: Four Seasons

Grape variety: Shiraz/Syrah

Pro tip: Don't want to break the bank while buying wine? Here's a list of wines that are as good as the expensive ones.

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An opinionated fashion & beauty writer who follows a strict pros & cons framework for her recommendations; loves discovering new fashion trends, writing & recommending them, while constantly keeping a pulse on what’s the latest that’s happening in the lifestyle space. Writer & editor with 4 years of experience that’s also always on the lookout for their next cup of coffee and book.