Rural India prefers drinking ‘Desi Sharab’ (the Indian term for liquor). This is mainly because the purchasing power of people living in villages and small towns is relatively low.
Had it been any different, who wouldn’t have preferred a better drink. I mean Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL). Isn’t it?
Population in urban cities, on the other hand, can afford to go with IMFL which also includes the spirits imported from outside the country in bulk. This liquor is bottled locally but naturally expensive.
Drinking in Urban India has seen a notable transformation in the recent times. The wine has surfaced as the mainstream drink among others. The pattern is healthier too because of low alcohol content in wine as compared to whiskey and rum.
Though it will take a while before India comes close to America and European nations on global wine consumption index, the trend is encouraging already.
Maharashtra, Telangana, Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh are some of the states where wine is produced in large quantities. The city of Nashik is popularly known as the ‘Wine capital of India’. But that’s a fact only to be enjoyed by people who love their tipple.
Let me share few more things about wine and craze in India –
- Sonal Holland Wine Academy is among the first institutions in India, that focuses on wine education, trade, consumers and social patterns.
- A recent study conducted by the organization concentrated on wine consumers in Delhi, Mumbai, Goa, Bengaluru, and Pune.
- It aimed at understanding the awareness levels of consumers in top cities.
- Understandably, the Indian consumer was found to be Price conscious above everything.
- Brand, color, taste, country, and region of origin mattered too.
- Consumers also feel that wine is a healthier option than other hardcore drinks which is an undeniable fact.
- Call it the byproduct of western inspiration or modern day flavoring, the young population (between the ages 25-34) is equally enthusiastic about purchasing and drinking wine.
Some of you may not find this story ‘so positive’ but the current drinking trend isn’t great either, which primarily involves consumption of high-level alcoholic drinks. Wine certainly can make people enjoy it more responsibly, adding a bit of health and purity.
Here is a wonderful infographic on White and Red Wine. So the next time you are opening your bottle, you know what to expect on flavor.
Click to enlarge
