Is it too much to look forward to a 1,000 wineries in India? That really depends upon how many other states liberalise their archaic licensing laws regarding the production and distribution of low-alcohol products like wine or beer.

The numbers of wineries in India have grown from 30 in end-2004 to well over 60, mainly as a result of the new wine policy set out by Maharashtra in 2001. There are also over 100 wine importers, while the total number of labels is probably nearing 2,000.

Another spurt in winery construction will come with the notification of the new wine policy in Karnataka later this month, and the next few years should see some 40 new wineries coming up in that state.

Both Tamil Nadu and Andhra already grow table grapes and the tableland around Periyar in Kerala looks most interesting. All one needs to start a vineyard is land, water and a bit of power, and a small operation need not really invest much in plant and machinery. So, may a thousand vineyards bloom!

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