Sikkim exploring possibility of establishing a dedicated fruit wine incubation centre
Guwahati, Aug 27: In a unique collaboration, Meghalaya is teaching wine-making skills to Sikkim, paving the way for the growth of the fruit wine industry in both states.
The course, which was focused exclusively on crafting wines from the region’s diverse agricultural produce—excluding grapes—was led by renowned industry experts Priyanka Save and Nagesh Pai, of Dewise Drinks Solutions and co-founders of Hill Zill Wines, the world’s first Chikoo fruit winery and a major name in fruit wines. The extensive knowledge and experience were pivotal in guiding the participants through the intricate processes of fruit winemaking.
The programme held recently featured a balanced mix of classroom sessions and hands-on practical training. Participants received in-depth education on essential aspects such as wine-making fundamentals, juice extraction processes, yeast selection, fermentation techniques, quality control procedures, and the economics of wine production.
An official of Meghalaya Farmers (Empowerment) Commission said special emphasis was placed on regulatory compliance, including excise regulations and FSSAI standards, as well as branding and marketing strategies vital for commercial success.
“The practical sessions were held in the state-of-the-art winery and laboratory facilities at North East Fruit Wine Incubation Centre (NEFWIC), where participants engaged in every stage of the wine-making process,” the official said.
“From prepping the winery for juice extraction to performing quality checks before fermentation, the training ensured that participants gained hands-on experience under the guidance of industry experts,” the official said.
A highlight of the practical sessions was the wine-tasting and food-pairing exercises, which sharpened participants’ sensory evaluation skills.
A key component of the training was the emphasis on crafting wines from local produce like honey and fruits such as pear, peach, and pineapple. This focus not only highlighted the region’s agricultural richness but also paved the way for the creation of unique and innovative fruit wines.
Among the various products crafted by the trainees during the project coursework, the beetroot wine stood out for its exceptional quality and potential, drawing particular attention from both the trainers and the participants and showcasing the potential of this underutilized ingredient in the wine-making industry.
“The course culminated in a detailed wine evaluation process, where the participants’ creations were subjected to rigorous scrutiny”, the official said.
This evaluation process was designed to mirror industry standards, providing participants with a realistic understanding of how their wines would be received in the market, enabling them to transition from home wine-making to commercial wine-making.
The beetroot wine, in particular, was lauded for its vibrant colour, balanced acidity, and complex flavour profile, indicating its potential as a commercial product. Other wines, such as those made from honey and peach, also received positive feedback, highlighting the overall success of the training.
Following the wine evaluation, participants were assessed through a written exam and the presentation of their project work. These assessments were crucial in ensuring that each participant had not only grasped the theoretical aspects of wine-making but also demonstrated the practical skills required to produce high-quality wines.
Successful participants were awarded their certifications recently marking the completion of an intensive and transformative learning experience.
“The success of this certification course has sparked significant interest in the potential for expanding the fruit wine industry in Sikkim,” the official said.
The official said Sikkim Industries Department is now exploring the possibility of establishing a dedicated fruit wine incubation centre in the state, modelled on the lines of the NEFWIC, which would provide ongoing support and resources to local winemakers. This centre could serve as a hub for innovation, enabling Sikkim to capitalize on the growing market for unique fruit wines.
“This initiative by the Meghalaya Farmers’ (Empowerment) Commission, in collaboration with the Government of Sikkim, represents a major step forward for the fruit wine industry in the North East”, the official said.
“By equipping local winemakers with the skills and knowledge necessary to produce high-quality wines, the program has not only empowered the participants but also laid the foundation for the region to become a leader in innovative fruit wine production” the official added.
