Today, despite my constant complaints about there not being enough of a choice of wines in the Indian market (caused primarily by prohibitive import duties, not a lack of takers), most of the metros carry a pretty good selection of both Indian and foreign wines. Unfortunately, most of the foreign imports and JVs (joint ventures) are entry level wines which, although consistent, are not brilliant. In my opinion, if you are going to opt for a Rs 500 price tag, then some of the Indian wines available in this bracket are very decent. A little further up the scale, Hardys from Australia is a mid range premium wine, which is reflected in the price and quality. If you really want to go to town, then the LVMH (Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy) group, represented in India, has a stable of their champagnes and wines from France and Australia which are available from them directly and through some retailers. If you really do want to try some excellent foreign wines, many importers are willing to sell them to you directly. The wines listed below are my choice for the New Year.

SULA CHENIN BLANC
A fruity (a little sweet even) white which is loved by everyone from grannies to the jet set. It's a great party wine as well as a very good accompaniment to Indian food and Oriental dishes.

CHATEAU INDAGE IVY BRUT SPARKLING
I am partial to Champagne and sparkling wines. This is my all time favourite, Indian sparkling. It is made in the same way as champagne using grapes more suited to our climate and produces a light, citrus like refreshing brut sparkling which is perfectly suited as an aperitif and with light eating. Indage also produce a lovely, all day drinking Rosé (white zinfandel) which also pairs well with spicy seafood.

GROVER LA RESERVE
Michel Rolland, known the world over as the 'flying wine maker', and who consults in many countries all over the world has helped Grover develop this wonderfully full bodied red wine in his inimitable style. It packs more punch than many Bordeaux style wines but is still my pick for an Indian red. Grover are also now producing lovely fresh Sauvignon Blanc.

HARDY'S
All the wines are very good but their Merlot is a winner. Anything from this house is a sure shot. I especially like their deep, 'plumy' red (Merlot) and their lovely Gewürztraminer which is great with spicy food.

VEUVE CLIQUOT, MOET & CHANDON CHAMPAGNE
These are International brands with reputations and quality to match. My personal favourite is Veuve Cliquot which I find has a more feminine and elegant style. LVMH should be bringing in more big brands in the new year. Green Point wines from their vineyards in Australia are also excellent.

SOME NEWCOMERS
Bluefolds (sauvignon blanc, chenin blanc, shiraz), Empire wines (sauvignon blanc, chenin blance, cabernet sauvignon), both from Maharashtra: I have been trying several new brands from Maharashtra over the past year. I find both value for money and easy drinking styles. Bluefolds seems to have a good distribution and is easily available all over the state.