A great bottle of wine doesn’t have to break the bank! There are many exceptional, award-winning wines under ₹3000 that will give an enjoyable drinking experience. These wines offer a perfect balance of taste, complexity, and value. Because of their competitive pricing, these wines are a boon for budding wine enthusiasts, who worry about spending too much on a bottle of wine. They’ll also be loved by seasoned oenophiles who want to refine their palate by trying different styles of wines without burning a hole their pocket.
It is a common misconception that only expensive wines taste great. However, many good quality wines are now available in India, that too at every price point. The India Wines And Spirits Award Tasting Competition further underscores this belief as all the nominees are judge by our esteemed jury panel without any knowledge of their producer or pricings.
Today we are bring you three such delicious wines under ₹3000 which won big at the IWS Award 2024. Since these wines carry the seal of approval from our highly-qualified jury, you can be assured that not only do they provide great value for money, but also are amongst the best domestic and international labels available in the country.
Also Read: Spike Your Thandai With These Holi Spirits
Sula The Source Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2023
India’s leading winery brings you a standout white wine which reflects Sula’s passion for winemaking perfectly. This oak-aged Sauvignon Blanc is vibrant, fruit-forward, and offers the perfect balance of zesty citrus and tropical richness.
Tasting Notes:
Expect a fresh and lively profile with ripe mango, passionfruit, pineapple, and green apple, complemented by a subtle oak-aged depth that adds structure and complexity.
Food Pairing:
- Papdi Chaat – The wine’s acidity cuts through the tangy and spicy flavours.
- Amritsari Fish Tikka – The crispness enhances the spiced batter and flaky fish.
- Prawn Malai Curry – The creamy coconut-based curry pairs beautifully with the citrusy brightness of the wine.
Why You Should Try It:
This is an excellent food-friendly white wine that pairs beautifully with Indian street food, seafood, and light appetizers. Its crisp acidity and fruity freshness make it a refreshing and elegant choice for sipping during warm-weather.
Producer: Sula Vineyards
Price: ₹1195
What The Fox Merlot 2022
If you’re looking for a medium-bodied red wine with a silky texture, What The Fox Merlot is a fantastic choice. It’s juicy, smooth, and filled with ripe fruit flavours, making it a great everyday wine for red wine lovers.
Tasting Notes:
This fruit-forward Merlot is bursting with juicy red fruits, blackberries, soft vanilla, and hints of spice. The velvety tannins make it easy to drink and incredibly smooth.
Food Pairing:
- Mutton Rogan Josh – The wine’s ripe fruit and soft tannins complement the bold, spiced flavours of the dish.
- Spicy Paneer Tikka – The rich tomato and smoky spice flavours work beautifully with the wine’s smooth, spicy profile.
- Dal Makhani – The creamy lentils and buttery texture enhance the soft vanilla and spice notes in the wine.
Why You Should Try It:
Merlot is one of the most approachable red wines, and this French red wine is rich, flavourful, and perfect for pairing with spiced Indian cuisine. Its smooth texture and ripe fruit aromas make it a must-try for any red wine lover.
Importer: VBev
Price: ₹2500
Also Read: Best Summer Cocktails For Holi
Argento Malbec Mendoza Argentina 2022
Argento Malbec is a bold, fruit-packed red wine that offers depth, structure, and smooth tannins. If you enjoy full-bodied wines with dark fruit flavours, this is an excellent choice.
Tasting Notes:
Made from Malbec grape variety, this vivacious red wine offers rich and intense aromas of blackcurrant, dark plum, and blackberry, complemented by hints of mocha, vanilla oak, and baking spice. The subtle oak ageing adds a layer of smokiness and warmth.
Food Pairing:
- Dal Makhani – The creamy, slow-cooked lentils contrast beautifully with the bold, smoky flavours of the Malbec.
- Lamb Seekh Kebabs – The charred, meaty kebabs are a perfect match for the wine’s dark fruit and spice notes.
- Smoked Eggplant Bharta – The smoky, roasted eggplant enhances the subtle oak ageing of the wine.
Why You Should Try It:
If you love bold, full-bodied reds, this Argentinian Malbec is a fantastic option. It’s rich, intense, and pairs beautifully with hearty Indian dishes.
Importer: Ace Beveragez
Price: ₹1995
How to Pick the Right Wine for Your Occasion
Finding the perfect wine isn’t just about the price—it’s about matching the wine to your mood, occasion, and food preferences. Here’s how to choose:
For a Casual Get-Together: A smooth and easy-drinking red like Merlot is always a crowd-pleaser. Serve it cool for maximum enjoyment.
For a Summer Pool Party: A zesty white like Sauvignon Blanc keeps things light, crisp, and fresh—great for summer outdoor gatherings.
For a Gourmet Dinner: A bold and intense red wine like Malbec will add many levels of complexity to a gourmet dinner.
For more such mind blowing wine recommendations, click here and check out the 2024 winners’ list of India Wines And Spirits Award.