Home-made wine in demand to offset dry days

Juhina Sabrina Samuel, who has been selling her products in the city, is a popular favourite, as her wines are organic. “The market has really opened up a lot in the last few years, and it’s not just Anglo-Indians who purchase these bottles, as everyone is open to drinking wine. Wine is a preferred option at house parties for women, over hard liquor. Also, the health benefits and home-made tag reassures people.”

Shiraz, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Port wine are some of her specialties, and Sabrina adds that the process is quite challenging. “We have to make sure the equipment is sterilised and very hygienic. The grapes also have to be picked up three months in advance, and I usually get them from Bengaluru,” she says. 

Prices can vary from Rs 250 a bottle to Rs 800 or more per liter, depending on the alcohol content and fermentation process. Donald Haliburn, who has been making wine in the city for over 15 years, has options such as fresh grape, raisin, white and black current wine among his repertoire. The 51-year-old vintner says that picking the right quality of grapes is essential. “I get them from the Koyambedu market in October itself, to ensure the best results,” he adds.

Though ‘non-alcoholic’ wines are also in vogue, it is usually the ones which get its patrons at least a little buzz that are more popular. For most of these wine-makers, business is purely by word-of-mouth or through social media. 

Smitha Kuttaya, who has also been in the business for around 17 years, says, “Apple cinnamon, mango and clove, orange, and pineapple were some of my favourite picks this year, and they all sold out even before the season; many people are clearly getting more interested with every passing year.”