The Indian Wine Buyer–Seller Meet (IWBSM) marked a milestone for Indian wines with a successful showcase at the iconic Manjit’s Wharf, bringing India’s growing wine industry into focus for the Australian market.
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 platform to highlight the diversity, innovation, and global potential of Indian wines.
The evening featured a lively masterclass, curated tastings, and networking sessions attended by more than 50 key stakeholders from the Australian wine industry — including importers, sommeliers, retailers, hospitality professionals, and media representatives. Guests explored a wide variety of styles ranging from sparkling and red wines to meads and fruit-based wines, reflecting the evolving narrative of India’s wine culture.
Prominent Indian producers showcased their portfolios, including Alurra, Good Drop Wine Cellars, Grover Zampa, Moonshine Meadery, Reveilo Wines, Sam Agri Wines, Sula Vineyards, and Talisva Fruit Wines. Each winery presented its unique terroir-driven expression, sparking discussions on food pairing, export potential, and brand positioning within the Australian market.
A highlight of the evening was a masterclass by Ashwin Rodrigues, Winemaker and Secretary of WineGAI, who shared insights into India’s wine landscape and growth opportunities. His presentation guided participants through Indian varietals, winemaking practices, and terroirs, supported by a tasting experience paired with food.
Dr. Tarun Bajaj, Director of APEDA, spoke on initiatives to boost wine exports and the organisation’s role in supporting India’s emerging wine sector globally. Dr. S. Janakiraman, Consul General of India in Sydney, commended the collaboration between Indian and Australian wine industries, underlining the role of wine in cultural and trade diplomacy.
The formal program concluded with a networking dinner where producers and guests engaged in business discussions and explored collaboration opportunities. Ashwin Rodrigues noted, “This meet is not just about wine; it’s about building long-term bridges between India and Australia. With ECTA as a backdrop, our ‘wine diplomacy’ is entering a new era of cooperation and opportunity.”
The event also aligned with the ongoing India–Australia Joint Dialogue on Wine, with industry leaders expressing optimism about mutual recognition of standards, joint marketing, and technical exchange. Guests praised the thoughtful pairing of Indian wines with food, which showcased their versatility on the global dining table.
The Indian Wine Buyer–Seller Meet successfully strengthened trade dialogue, created concrete leads for distribution, and set the tone for a deeper partnership between India and Australia in the wine sector.
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