The Hindu : National : A toast to wine-makers

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Monday, Nov 21, 2005

National

National

A toast to wine-makers

Shillong: Wine-makers in Shillong are raising a toast and a cheer. Many families here have been brewing wine for years, but now, with the annual Shillong Wine Festival their art might just become a source of fame and fortune.

The venue was immaculately chosen and the ambience lyrically created to match the festive-mood-like occasion — the Second Shillong Wine Festival — held at Crinoline Swimming Pool here on Saturday.

Wine lovers thronged the place and sampled various wines made from pears, peach, blackberry, grapes, banana and ginger.

For John M.S. Khongwir, a senior official of the North Eastern Hill University, making wine is hobby. He has been making wine for the past 40 years, but the festival, launched by the Forever Young Sports Club last year, has made him think of the commercial aspect of his skill.

"It is a commercially viable option, provided the Government comes up with schemes to help us," he said.

Unlike his peers, John does not believe that the wine made here could, at present, pose a challenge to nationally-known brands. He says people here have the skill and taste but the quality needs improvement.

Another wine maker, Julian Laloo said good wine is like good literature.

Wine makers from Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam were also at the festival.

The prices ranged from Rs. 250 to Rs. 600 a bottle. — UNI

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