Ahmednagar youth promotes Indian wines abroad

PUNE: Winenxt, a company floated by a graduate of the city-based Agriculture College now studying in France, has tied up with a French exhibitor to promote Indian wines abroad.

The company has entered into a 50-50 joint venture with International Wine Consulting (IWC), a major exhibitor based in France's Bordeaux region, to organise exhibitions showcasing the Indian wine industry.

Winenxt has been formed by Kunal Chug, who originally hails from Rahata taluka in Ahmednagar district. "There is a huge scope for technology-sharing, partnership and introduction of global wine brands in India through Indian wine makers. Such exposure is necessary and will considerably benefit India Inc," said Chug, who is currently pursuing his international masters in vintage in France under the Erasmus Mundus scholarship offered by the European Union. Winenxt will be based in India and will operate in various parts of the world, Chug pointed out.

Speaking about how the tie-up with IWC came into being, Chug said he was earlier involved with the Franco-Indian Network for Sustainable Business, a major body that promotes Indo-French business relations. That is when he got in touch with IWC.

The exhibitor plans to organise a business-to-business exhibition in June this year in Bordeaux, which is expected to be attended by 30 representatives from India. "Indian grape growers and wine makers will be able to interact with officials from major companies and senior experts at the IWC exhibition. I will be involved in organising a meeting of the Indian delegation with global wine makers, which could result in business relations," Chug stated.

Being a leading producer of wine in the country, there will be a large number of delegates from Maharashtra at the expo. At least 10 grape growers and wine makers from the state have confirmed their participation, Chug added.

Speaking about the growing importance of the Indian wine market, he further said, "Wine consumption in the country is growing at a steady pace and the situation is being keenly watched by global players. Indian wine growers could contribute by introducing new brands and new tastes to the Indian markets and overseas too."

Siva Santhirasegaram, the co-ordinator of the expo, said, "Along with seminars, the expo will also have some visits to wineries. Visitors will be able to understand the technology and methods. Indian delegates will be able to get a better insight through these sessions."