Over 25 transformative years, Sula today stands proud as the cornerstone of India’s wine revolution, writes Devati Mallick
This year marks a special milestone for Sula Vineyards — 25 years of redefining Indian wine and sparking a renaissance in Indian wine tourism. From the return of the iconic Sula Fest to global
recognitions, this anniversary year is brimming with celebrations, exciting wines, and a glimpse into the new chapter Sula is unfolding.
Rolling hills, sun-soaked vines, and a sleepy corner of Nashik — Sula’s story is deeply rooted in a landscape that was once known more for table grapes than for fine wine. Over 25 transformative years, Sula today stands proud as the cornerstone of India’s wine revolution. Sula’s silver jubilee is a milestone that speaks volumes about perseverance, innovation, and a little bit of audacious dreaming. Yet, this story isn’t just a retrospective of Sula’s incredible journey; it’s a celebration of its enduring spirit — like uncorking a fine vintage that promises bold aromas of sweet success and a palate of fresh flavours with a new chapter of premiumisation.
In conversation with John Stimpfig
When Sula planted its first vines in 1996, skepticism was rife. Wine in India was a niche luxury then, consumed by a miniscule section of the population, but Rajeev Samant had the vision to transform Nashik into India’s ‘Napa Valley’. Reflecting on his journey during a recent conversation with wine writer, John Stimpfig in the “Great Wine Lives” series, Rajeev says, “It wasn’t just about making wine. It was about creating a culture, a lifestyle, and a new way of seeing what India could do.” Persuading people to drink wine in a country dominated by spirits and beer, while navigating an environment bristling with rules and regulations is no small feat. As Rajeev recalls, “It was one hell of a job!”
Rajeev’s account of Sula’s modest early beginnings to becoming India’s largest and best known wine brand is like hearing a mastter storyteller weave a tale of triumph against all odds. His achievement and impact on the industry is aptly summed up in John Stimfig’s words, “Rajeev has taught an entire generation to drink good wine.”
The Wine Conversation is a well-known podcast dedicated to wine, featuring interviews with people who stand out as wine icons. Rajeev’s interview marks the first time an Indian voice has been included in the series. To be singled out as part of a prestigious platform is not just another feather of cool ‘firsts’ in Sula’s cap but a testament to Sula’s growing influence and the evolution of the Indian wine industry as a whole. To be featured in “The Wine Conversation” is indeed a proud moment, but it is also a reminder of how far Indian wine has come and how much further it can go. The interview is available to listen to or read at “The Wine Conversation” website under the “Great Wine Lives” series.
The Return of Sula Fest – An experience, an escape and a total vibe
For years, Sula Fest wasn’t just any event, but a fun mix of all the words above — one that transformed Nashik’s serene vineyards into a playground of music, wine, and pure joy! The air would come alive with a heady blend of vino aromas and the beats of artists under a star-strewn sky. And now, after a five-year gap, Sula Fest is back. Set against the lush backdrop of Sula Vineyards, this year’s festival takes place on the 1st and 2nd of February, 2025. For the first time, it introduces wine cocktails and wine in cans — a fresh twist to India’s wine culture that makes wine more approachable and fun for a whole new audience. Don’t miss Sula’s finest wines paired with artisanal cheese and chocolates at the ‘VIP Tasting’ or the ‘Premium Tasting’ for interactive wine sessions and grape stomping fun. Be the first to try The Source Moscato and enjoy wine-based cocktails at the cocktail bar.
With over 10,000 attendees expected across two days, the festival this year boasts an eclectic lineup of indie artists and international bands. Divine, the voice behind Gully Boy’s rap anthems, Ritviz x Karan Kanchan, When Chai Met Toast, OAFF and more, will take to the stage at the winery’s open-air amphitheater.
“The Sula Fest has always been more than just a showcase of wine,” says Rajeev. “It is a gathering of people who love music, culture, and moments that connect us all.”
This year’s event offers music along with an array of immersive wine experiences, culinary delights, and the kind of serendipitous encounters that make festivals unforgettable. From gourmet food stalls to curated wine pairings, the festival merges gastronomy with music for a one-of-a-kind vineyard experience.
As the 25th anniversary sets the stage for its grand return, Sula Fest is a reflection of Sula’s journey. The Nashik festival has been a pioneer, introducing thousands of Indians to wine in a way that made it accessible, cool, and fun, and opened the gates to a world of discovery and celebration.
If you’re looking for a vineyard getaway, a celebration or simply a reason to raise a toast, Sula Fest might just be where you’ll find it.
Festival passes start at Rs 2,999. Food and drink coupons will be available at the venue and tickets are now available on BookMyShow.
Wine Tourism — The Soul of Sula
What sets Sula apart is the world it has built around the wine-drinking experience. It’s nothing short of a renaissance for wine tourism in India; Sula has crafted a seamless blend of hospitality, sustainability and the joy of being among the vines. For newcomers, the estate is an inviting gateway; for enthusiasts, it’s a wine wonderland.
Sula has redefined how Indians experience wine. The sprawling estate in Nashik has transformed into a destination in itself. Luxury stays at The Source, with curated wine tastings and picturesque vineyard tours, are a great lure for tourists. Over the years, Sula has welcomed millions of visitors, weaving wine tourism into India’s cultural fabric.
Besides winning international awards and introducing new varietals, another milestone is the historic IPO debut that underscored Sula’s growing clout. Before Sula, Indian wine was a niche business. Today, it’s a $150 million industry, with Sula commanding over 50% share in the domestic wine market.
Cabernet Sauvignon, The Source Grenache Rosé
Yet, its greatest achievement might just be how Sula has made wine a part of everyday India, blending it seamlessly into the country’s lifestyle. It has demystified wine, making it approachable and exciting for a new generation of Indians. Take wine in a can, for instance — a concept that has opened the doors to casual, on the- go wine drinkers, transforming perceptions about how and when to enjoy wine.
There’s more to Sula beyond this. The vineyard is a model of sustainability, from solar power initiatives to water conservation techniques. Their commitment to green practices isn’t just a nod to modern trends; it’s a reflection of their ethos — nurturing the land that nurtures them.
For Rajeev, wine is more than just a business. “There’s a kind of poetry to it,” he reflects. “You take something as simple as a grape and turn it into something that connects people, transports them, and creates memories.”
A Toast to the next 25 Years
As Sula celebrates its silver jubilee, the question is no longer whether India can make great wine — it’s about what’s next? With plans to expand their tourism offerings, experiment with new varietals, and deepen their commitment to sustainability, Sula’s future looks as ambitious as its past.
For those who’ve followed Sula’s journey, the return of Sula Fest and the celebration of its 25th year feels like a full-circle moment — a reminder of where it all began and where it’s headed. For the uninitiated, it’s the perfect moment to discover why Sula is India’s leading name in wine. Sula’s story is one of vision, resilience, and joy. It is about how a vineyard in Nashik became the heartbeat of Indian wine. As the corks pop and glasses clink this year in celebration, one thing is certain: Sula isn’t just a winery; it’s a legacy.
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