Nandi Hills

Approximately 45km (25 miles) north of Bangalore, the Nandi Hills wine region is situated 800m above sea level in Karnataka. The temperature of the Nandi Hills is warm enough for grape vines to be cultivated all year round, and it is possible to take two harvests of table grapes in a single year. However, this is not viable for wine grapes as from May to September the rainy season makes it impractical. The main growing season for wine grapes lasts from November until harvest as late as April, which is probably longer than anywhere else in India due to the natural protection given by the Nandi Hills. Pruning takes place either side of the rainy season, generally in May and in early November. The soils in the region are well-drained rich limestone which produces aromatic wines with depth and richness. One well-known vineyard based in the Nandi Hills is Grover Vineyards which was founded by Kanwal Grover who, in 1988, introduced the first French varietals to India. This region continues to attract winegrowers and is one to watch in the future.