Fun loving Sula celebrates 10th anniversary
Arguably, a vineyard is always a reflection of its proprietor and the Indian vineyards are no exception. In the case of Sula Vineyards, Rajeev Samant's personal style, California influence (as much in outlook as in the wine) and marketing acumen is visible everywhere. And as Sula celebrates its 10th anniversary on March 14th with a day-long concert at the beautiful, open-air amphitheater set in the middle of Sula's estate vineyards wine culture at its best will be on display.
Running from 03:00 pm until midnight on Saturday 14th March 2009, the festival will provide a unique opportunity to experience the combined social pleasure of wine and music. Visitors will also have access to other enjoyable activities such as Live 'Cook in Wine' sessions; the chance to purchase wine accessories, as well as the sale of various type of gourmet cheese and olive oil.
Visitors to SULAFEST can partake of food offerings such as kebabs, sushi, falafel, pitta bread, barbecue items and pizzas from their very own vineyard restaurant, Little Italy at Sula headquarters. As if that isn't enough of gastro-heaven, according to information received, SULAFEST is also hosting an exclusive Chocolate and Cheese Lounge with Chocolate and Cheese fountains - unavoidable! In addition there will be Arts and Craft Stalls, Tattoo Artists and Face Painters to get everyone into the party mood.
As Sula surges forward, SI Wine Magazine's support and encouragement is with you all the way.
For passes to the event please contact Rohan on: +919970090016 / +919820355499 or email rohana@sulawines.com. VIP passes are also available. These include unlimited
barbeque food and Kebabs + dessert coupons + wine bottle + entry to watc artist performances.
The band line-up is:
Sridhar & Thayil
Shaair and Func
Agnee
Jalebee Cartel
Salsa dancers, YMCA act & Fire Spinners
Comments
What could have become one of India’s premier food and wine festivals was reduced to a damp celebration. Apart from the power bestowed by Nashik’s rain gods who made sure the night was cut short, several factors conspired against this event.
In its second year, Sula Fest’s arrangements were outsourced to a popular event management firm, making a potential Tuscan Sun Festival plummet to a commercial bazaar that could’ve been anywhere in the city. With disappointed stall owners and no focus on wine or live music, one didn’t know which way to go.
As the Viognier, Chenin Blanc and Zinfandels flowed through the night, revellers seemed like page 3 enthusiasts dressed for a derby. The food counter had diminutive variety from Little Italy and Kareem’s, while the gelato was supplied by Amore.
If there was any hope of good music, Sridhar and Thayil had forgotten to add that spunk, providing only background noise and inane lyrics.
While the sudden showers eliminated any live music at the amphitheatre, revellers were ushered into the VIP lounge, only to be greeted by short power cuts and no announcements from the management. Basically, you were left wondering why you had driven three hours to feel like a squashed sardine in a can.