Sydney played host to a milestone event for Indian wines as the Indian Wine Buyer–Seller Meet (IWBSM) unfolded on 28 July 2025 at the iconic Manjit’s Wharf Restaurant. Organised by the Wine Growers Association of India (WineGAI), with support from the Consulate General of India in Sydney (CGI Sydney) and the Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), the event served as a dynamic platform to introduce the diversity and innovation of Indian wines to the Australian market.
The evening brought together over 50 key stakeholders from across the Australian wine industry—including importers, sommeliers, retailers, hospitality professionals, and media—for an immersive experience featuring high-energy masterclasses, curated tastings, and strategic networking.
From elegant sparkling wines and bold reds to meads and fruit-based innovations, attendees explored an impressive spectrum of styles that reflect India’s evolving wine narrative. Participating producers included Alurra, Good Drop Wine Cellars, Grover Zampa, Moonshine Meadery, Reveilo Wines, Sam Agri Wines, Sula Vineyards, and Talisva Fruit Wines—each offering a distinct expression of terroir, craft, and storytelling.
Winemaker and WineGAI Secretary Ashwin Rodrigues led a compelling masterclass, offering insights into India’s wine landscape, varietal diversity, and regional terroirs. His session featured a guided tasting paired with food, demonstrating Indian wines’ versatility and export potential.
Dr. Tarun Bajaj, Director of APEDA, presented an informative address on initiatives to promote Indian wine exports and APEDA’s pivotal role in supporting the sector’s global outreach. This was followed by remarks from Dr. S. Janakiraman, Consul General of India in Sydney, who lauded the strengthening ties between the Indian and Australian wine industries and underscored the importance of wine as a tool for cultural and trade diplomacy.
The formal segment concluded with a lively networking dinner, enabling deeper engagement between producers and guests. Conversations centred around distribution prospects, brand positioning, and collaborative growth.
“This meet is not just about wine; it’s about building long-term bridges between India and Australia,” said Ashwin Rodrigues. “With the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) as a foundation, our ‘wine diplomacy’ is ushering in a new era of partnership and possibility.”
The event also marked a continuation of the India–Australia Joint Dialogue on Wine, with delegates expressing optimism about future cooperation in areas such as mutual recognition of wine standards, joint marketing initiatives, and technical exchange.
Guests praised the thoughtfully paired Indian wines and cuisine, noting their compatibility with global palates and their fresh appeal to Australia’s adventurous wine consumers. Media professionals and influencers highlighted the event’s success in reshaping perceptions of Indian wines.
The Indian Wine Buyer–Seller Meet concluded with strong interest in partnerships, distribution opportunities, and expanded retail visibility, laying the groundwork for India’s next chapter in the global wine story.
Pop, pour, and say namaste; your next “cheers” could be with Indian wine & samosa!
Further Information:
📞 Ashwin Rodrigues, Secretary, WineGAI: +91 97029 30776
📧 Email: secretary@winegai.org
📸 Instagram: @winegai
🌐 Website: winegai.org
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
