Wine from here, there, everywhere

The Guide stops by a godown in Andheri that claims to stock some of the world's most exclusive wines at presumably modest prices

The Guide stops by a godown in Andheri that claims to stock some of the world's most exclusive wines at presumably modest prices

The Wine Warehouse is an effort to provide access to quality wines ranging from the wine connoisseur to the plain curious, and someday every Indian in between, if the Wine Society of India (WSI) has its way.

At the Warehouse, the wines are priced lower than the MRP. Prices range between Rs 500 to Rs 5,000, with wines from the Connoisseur selection tipping towards the higher side.

But if you happen to be one of WSI's 3,000 members, you're automatically entitled to a discount of 5% and can also have the wine delivered home.

Wine Society of India's Myles Mayall at the Wine Warehouse in Andheri.

Walking into the 800 sq ft space filled with wine bottles from places and regions we couldn't even pronounce, leave alone knew existed, was enough to make us want to seek some liquid courage.

We needn't have worried too long as Myles Mayall, wine educator and wine buyer for WSI, was ready to take us around the wine world and share his expertise on preferences across cultures.
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"The Chinese prefer buying wines with names that they can pronounce," he quips. Myles is only joking, of course. Besides, Indians, he assures us, are far more discerning.

Through his role, Myles hopes to demystify at least some of the culture that surrounds wine. "Our focus is education. To get more people to drink wine, it should first be made accessible," he says.
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In keeping with that goal, an hour-long tasting session will be held every alternate Friday evening at the Warehouse, where students can learn how to swirl, sniff and savour wines from different regions. Sant ufffd!

At Wine Warehouse, 23, Keytuo Estate, Kondivita Road, Andheri (E). Call 42639200

Grape misconceptions
Wine buyer and WSI educator Myles Mayall on certain misconceptions about wine

Older means better
Almost 90% of the wine made in the world is designed to be drunk within two years. Often, it's only the more expensive wines that are meant to age.

Yes to curry, no to wine
Indian food can definitely be paired with wine. The basic rule is to pair rich food with a rich wine and lighter food with a lighter wine. Red wines, including Barolo or a Cabernet Sauvignon, are particularly suited to Indian food.

Screw top means it's cheap
Certain wines with screw tops are actually very expensive. Also, since screw tops are more reliable than corks, the wines are less prone to damage. Though, it might less romantic to drink wine from a bottle that has a screw top!