A winemaker from Bengaluru launches a new label of wines called Early Dark in association with a French brand

It doesn't come as a surprise when someone who was India’s first winemaker decides to set up on his own. As an active proponent of the business since 1984, and having worked with brands like Chateau Indage, Grover and United Spirits Limited, Bengaluru’s Abhay Kewadkar introduces his own label, Early Dark.
 

In partnership with Vignobles Arbeau, award-winning winemakers from France, he launches two ranges of wine — the Reserve range and the Regional range, with three varietals in each. The Reserve range includes Chateau Coutinel 2016, Geraud Arbeau Bordeaux Rouge 2016 and the Sauvignon Blanc 2017. The Regional range comprises Cabernet Merlot 2017, Chardonnay 2017 and Rose Winé 2017.

The Reserve range wines pair well with Indian food and the Regional range wines are best served with salads or tapas. Talking about the Cabernet Merlot 2017 in particular, Abhay says, “Made in the vineyards of the Comte Tolosan area in South-West France, the nose is fruity and aromatic with some earthy and savoury notes on the palate. It has a finish that is concentrated yet supple. This is a great wine to consume on its own or with spicy food and is best during the early evening.”

Abhay has collaborated with the French winemakers because of a two-decade friendship with Anne Arbeau, one of the fourth generation members of the family that owns the label. “She once said that she was dreaming of introducing her wines in India. We always joked about it whenever we met and I promised that some day, I will help her do that,” he reveals.

Rs 1,260 upwards. At outlets across the city
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