Stylishly packaged, the Big Banyan selection – Shiraz, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon in reds, and Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc in whites – brings the promise of quality wines, each with its own definite character, represented by the fresh and natural flavour of the grape.

Professional vineyard management, technical expertise and quality grapes from Nashik come together under the guidance of Italian wine consultant, Lucio Matricardi who has a PhD in wine biotechnology from the University of California in Davis and many years of international winemaking experience at some of the best wineries. Accessible and enjoyable on their own, or paired with food, the wines have a subtle elegance designed for the Indian palate.

Read more about Big Banyan in the next issue of Sommelier India.

Tasting Notes from the Winemaker

Sauvignon Blanc
Tasting Notes: The unique aromatic notes of the Sauvignon Blanc white grape are greatly enhanced by the sharp temperature variations between day and night in Nashik.
Colour: Straw-yellow. Aromas: Reminiscent of capsicum and gooseberry with some nuances of pineapple and white peach. Palate: Very fresh aroma of citrus and lime, dry, slightly sour with a smooth finish.
Pairings: Ideal as an aperitif, it pairs well with steamed fish, fresh cheeses and white meats with light aromatic herbs. Serve chilled at 10 –12° C

Chenin Blanc
Tasting Notes: The Chenin Blanc grape is uniquely cultivated at the altitudes of 660-980 ft. in Nashik Valley. Its elegant aroma makes this wine ideal for several Indian recipes.
Colour: Straw-yellow with green accents. Aromas: Delicate, lightly aromatic and fruity, with hints of yellow apple, white melon, peach, mixed with light spicy notes of coriander and thyme. Palate: Dry, fresh, fruity, lightly aromatic, well balanced and moderately acidic.
Pairings: Snack foods and light spicy fish dishes and white meats cooked with light aromatic herbs. Serve chilled at 12- 14°C

Cabernet Sauvignon
Tasting Notes: Cabernet Sauvignon, the most well known of red grapes ripens perfectly in the vineyards of the Nashik Valley, lending a great personality and structure to the wine.
Colour: A deep red ruby with purple tints. Aromas: Intense, complex, spicy notes reminiscent of eucalyptus and sweet fruit, fragrant scent of oak. Palate: dry,full-bodied with good structure and velvety tannins.
Pairings: Spicy and strong flavoured Indian meat dishes and strong, pungent cheeses. Serve cool at 16 – 18°C

Shiraz
Tasting Notes: The Shiraz grape is well adapted to hot climates such as Australia and India, achieving optimum aromas and ripening with a concentration of tannins
Colour: Ruby red with reflections of violet. Aromas: Rich notes of blueberries, blackberries and raspberries with intense spicy tones. Palate: Dry, harmonious, fruity, velvety tannins.
Pairings: Light spicy meat dishes and medium aged cheeses. Serve cool at 16-18°C

Zinfandel
Tasting Notes: Planted in Italy as Primitivo, the Zinfandel red grape produces elegant wine with fresh fruity fragrances and delicate taste.
Colour: Elegant light red with violet tints. Aromas: Intense fruity aromas of cherry, violets and rose. Palate: Refreshingly gentle with a smooth and soft finish.
Pairings: Fantastic as an aperitif, it pairs well with medium, spicy fish dishes, white meats and medium-aged cheeses. Serve cool at 16 – 18°C