According to Washington State Wine Commission officials India was picked for the marketing campaign because, "India is projected to overtake China as the world's most populous country some time in the next 10 to 15 years, and the wine market in India continues to grow."

Washington is the second-largest wine producer in the US, after California. The state's industry has an economic impact of more than $3 billion each year, notes the Commission, and employs over 19,000 people.

During the visit more than 75 wines - the largest showcase of any single region to come to India this year - will be presented to F&B professionals, hoteliers, restaurateurs, and importers.

Wines from Washington State are highly-rated around the world and come with the lowest average price. Al Portney, vice president for international sales with Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, Washington State's largest producer, has visited India on several occasions.

"We first started doing business in India in 2005, due to the strong growth in high-end hotels servicing the global business environment," he said. "Today, our wines are sold in more than 25 markets throughout the country."

Gaurav Anand, Director of Wine Forays, the local organiser, says that interest in the campaign has been strong with enquiries from importers, hoteliers, and restaurateurs. "With top-notch quality at relatively bargain prices, it is inevitable that Washington State will pick up market share in India," he says.

For an overview of the region, read, "A New Frontier in America's West" by Gaurav Anand in the current issue of Sommelier India.

Registration for the invitation-only events is currently open. More information on the campaign is available at http://www.wineforays.com/washingtonwine.