By Roopak Goswami
Guwahati, Sept 13: Wine lovers across the country are in for a treat, with a chance to savor wines as pure and unspoiled as the lush, untouched landscapes of Meghalaya.
Five of Meghalaya’s finest winemakers are set to tantalize the taste buds of wine lovers at Vinexpo Mumbai 2024, bringing the unique flavors of the state’s indigenous fruits to one of the industry’s biggest stages.
Held on September 18-19 at the Jio World Convention Centre, the event will see these winemakers offering a fresh and exotic take on fruit wines, with each bringing something distinct to the table for wine enthusiasts.
The Kynjai Winery established in 2019 by Dajied Shabong and Y Yanbothung Patton will be offering its robust, deeply flavored wines crafted from local fruits like Sohiong and wild apple. Since its founding in 2019, Kynjai has gained a loyal following for its ability to extract the rich essence of Meghalaya’s landscape, transforming these regional fruits into wines that are bold, intense, and full of character.
Next in line is Umpohliew Wines started by Jason Ward Kharkongor whose offerings highlight the pristine natural resources of Meghalaya. Named after the Khasi word for “spring water,” Umpohliew incorporates the pure, untouched waters of the Khasi Hills into its winemaking process, giving their wines a refreshing, clean finish that sets them apart.
Founded in 2020 by Kyrshan Kevin Passah & Elilia Marbaniang, Kevell Wines offers an artisanal touch, blending traditional and modern winemaking techniques to create wines that are both innovative and rooted in local culture.
Asame Wines, under the leadership of Pecindha K. Sangma, will captivate attendees with its unique range of wines made from indigenous fruits like bloodfruit, blue pea, and local berries.
Completing the lineup is Dura Wines, created by Dr. Lyang B. Sangma, who has quickly gained attention for producing preservative-free wines made from the Thereju (Prunus jenkinsii) fruit, a rare species found in the Garo Hills.
Spearheaded by the Meghalaya Farmers’ (Empowerment) Commission (MFEC), this participation marks a significant milestone for the state, which has rapidly transformed its fruit winemaking tradition from a homegrown craft into a thriving commercial enterprise.
Vinexpo Mumbai, a premier B2B event in the global wine and spirits industry, offers a unique platform for networking, learning, and business expansion. With producers from around the world connecting with top importers, distributors, and retailers, Meghalaya’s fruit wines will take center stage in the state’s own pavilion.
