When you think of Chandon, sparkling wines probably come to mind. However, the luxury brand is breaking new ground by introducing a still red wine made in India, and it's making quite an impression. Named Aurva, which translates to 'of the earth' in Sanskrit, this wine is a testament to Chandon's commitment to innovation and the diverse wine culture in India.

Chandon, a label known for its sparkling Chenin Blanc and Shiraz-rich Rosé, decided it was time to offer something for those with a taste for red wine. It's a significant departure from their usual offerings, and it aims to change the perception of India as solely a brown spirit market.

Aurva is a 100% Shiraz red wine, and its character reflects the rich red soil of Nashik's Dindori region, an unconventional but promising terroir for wine production. The winemakers have gone to great lengths to ensure its excellence.

The journey of creating this exquisite red wine involved meticulous care. The Shiraz grapes, cultivated in Nashik's unique climate, were trained with only one shoot per branch. They were closely monitored to allow a fixed number of bunches, and vertical shoot positioning ensured the right amount of sun and ventilation. The result: a vibrant, aromatic, and sensuous red wine.

This wine goes through a 10-day fermentation process and is then aged in both new and old French oak barrels for ten months. The French oak barrels from François Frères, renowned for their high quality, lend depth and complexity to the wine, making it an experience worth savoring.

When you pour yourself a glass of Aurva and let it breathe for about 30 minutes, you're in for a treat. It's a deep ruby Shiraz with a purple hue, offering rich fruit aromas, a velvety smooth texture, and flavors of cloves, cherry, blueberry, and plum. As you swirl, you'll also notice hints of vanilla, coffee beans, chocolate, and the subtle influence of oak. It's a wine that combines tradition with finesse.

While Chandon's sparkling wines have been their forte for a decade, the introduction of Aurva is an exciting new chapter in their winemaking history. It's a reflection of the brand's dedication to pushing boundaries and bringing innovative wines to the Indian market.

This exceptional wine stands as a symbol of India's potential in the world of luxury wines. While Indian consumers are exploring various wine styles, Chandon's Aurva is set to stand out as an elegant choice for celebratory evenings, complementing a wide range of contemporary and traditional Indian dishes. It pairs perfectly with grilled and barbecued meats, full-flavored curries, roasted vegetables, and cheese.

Moët Hennessy India, a leader in the luxury wine and spirits segment, has distributed Aurva, further emphasizing its commitment to excellence in India's wine culture. This premium red wine is available at select retail outlets and five-star properties in Mumbai, as well as the Chandon winery in Nashik. Soon, it will be accessible in other key markets across India, making it a wine to watch out for.

Chandon's introduction of Aurva is a significant step in India's wine journey. This premium red wine pays homage to the rich terroir of Nashik, celebrating the land and mythic beauty of this unique region. With its delightful flavors and aromas, Aurva is poised to become a classic choice for wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs in India and beyond. Cheers to the new era of Indian winemaking!