By Pamela Nandi | Sep 19, 2025

The choicest wines, scenic landscapes, and immersive tasting experiences — this is exactly what makes a wine vacation unforgettable. My recent visit to Sula Vineyards in Nashik, fondly known as the Wine Capital of India, was nothing short of a dream.

Founded in 1999 by Rajeev Samant and named after his mother Sulabha (Sulavi), Sula has grown into India’s most awarded winery.

Today, the brand boasts a stellar portfolio including RASA, Dindori, The Source, and of course, their flagship Sula wines. Nestled amidst rolling hills and lush green vineyards, this destination offers the perfect balance of luxury, leisure, and learning.

Stay: The Source at Sula

I checked into the beautiful Vintage Room at The Source at Sula – their boutique resort inspired by Tuscan architecture. With a stylish private patio overlooking the Nashik mountains, the setting was serene and indulgent.

There’s something magical about waking up in the heart of wine country. As I drew open the curtains, the morning mist still clung to the rolling Nashik hills – stretching as far as the eye could see, and in that moment, I knew this trip was going to be unforgettable.

Breakfast at La Bodega

My hearty morning breakfast at La Bodega, the resort’s signature restaurant was a slow, indulgent affair – freshly baked breads, local fruits, and a cup of coffee that tasted better simply because of the view. Perfectly setting the tone for a day of exploration.

A Walk Among the Vines

Post breakfast, I strolled through the sprawling vineyards, the dew-kissed grapevines almost whispering stories of the wines they would soon become.

Happy Hour by the Poolside

As the sun set, the vineyards turned golden. I indulged in the Happy Hour, by the poolside exclusively for in-house guests – where the mood was just as effervescent as the sparkling wine in my hand.

The Wine-Tasting Experience

The guided access tour was like stepping behind the velvet curtain of a theater – watching the transformation from grape to glass was both educational and fascinating. The oak barrels, the fermentation tanks, the faint aroma of wine in the air – it was intoxicating, even before the first sip.

One of the highlights for in-house guests is the complimentary wine-tasting session, where swirling, sipping, and savoring (without the spitting!) becomes an art in itself.. Every glass told a different story.

The tasting session introduced me to six of Sula’s most celebrated wines:

• Sula Brut Tropicale – A sparkling rosé with refreshing tropical fruit and citrus notes.
• Rasa Syrah – An oak-aged, velvety red wine with hints of pepper.
• Dindori Reserve Shiraz – Bold, fiery, and smoky with layers of red fruit.
• The Source Grenache Rose – A Provence-style rosé bursting with bright fruity flavors.
• The Source Moscato – A light, sweet white wine with a balanced finish.
• Rasa Cabernet Sauvignon – Rich, opulent, and peppery with lingering depth.

Learning the etiquette of wine tasting – the right way to swirl, sniff, sip, and savor, made the experience even more enriching.

Evenings Under the Stars

When evening descended, the vineyard lit up under the starry sky, offering a magical ambiance.

Dinner at Rasa

Dinner at Rasa, their signature Italian restaurant, was the perfect finale. I devoured wood-fired pizzas paired with their finest wines, creating a feast for both the palate and the soul under a canopy of stars. Nashik’s night sky has never looked so beautiful.

Don’t Miss the Souvenir Shop

Before leaving, I stopped at the Sula Vineyards Souvenir Shop – RASA, and it was an experience in itself. The wide collection of wines from their signature labels to premium reserves, makes it hard to resist. It’s the perfect place to pick up a bottle (or two!) as a keepsake or gift, along with chic vineyard-inspired merchandise.

Best Time to Visit

While Sula is stunning year-round, the harvest season (November to December) is the most enchanting time to visit. The vineyards are alive with activity, and the festive atmosphere enhances the charm of wine country living.

Final Thoughts

Sula Vineyards is not just a winery – it’s a destination that celebrates the art of winemaking, the beauty of nature, and the joy of indulgence. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking for a serene getaway, a trip to Nashik’s rolling vineyards promises memories as rich as the wines themselves.