Bengaluru, India – September 24, 2026 – The art of wine tasting, often perceived as an exclusive and somewhat intimidating pursuit, is being democratized and revitalized by the innovative Viva La Vino festival. Founded by sommeliers Devati Mallick and Gargi Kothari, the third iteration of this dynamic event is set to uncork its magic in Bengaluru this weekend, promising a refreshing departure from traditional, overly technical wine experiences. With a vision to make wine appreciation accessible, enjoyable, and deeply social, Viva La Vino is poised to expand its footprint across six other major Indian cities in the coming months, aiming to cultivate a thriving community of wine enthusiasts.
The Genesis of a Social Wine Experience
The inspiration behind Viva La Vino stems from a clear observation by its founders: many newcomers to the world of wine find themselves overwhelmed by the jargon and perceived formality. "To a newbie, wine tasting can sometimes feel very formal and technical. We wanted to change that," explains Devati Mallick. This sentiment underscores the core philosophy of the festival – to strip away the pretentiousness and replace it with genuine enjoyment and spirited conversation.
Gargi Kothari elaborates on their ambition: "This year we wanted to make the festival bigger and better." This drive for enhancement is evident in the expanded scope of the third season, which begins in Bengaluru at The Lalit Ashok Hotel. The festival is meticulously designed to bring together a diverse array of wine producers, from established Indian labels to unique international importers, creating a rich tapestry of global and local flavors.
A Sensory Journey: Highlights of the Viva La Vino Festival
The Bengaluru edition of Viva La Vino is a testament to the founders’ commitment to offering a comprehensive and engaging experience. Attendees will have the unparalleled opportunity to sample a vast selection of up to 100 wines from various vendor stalls. This extensive tasting menu will feature prominent Indian wineries such as Fratelli Wines, Chenab AlcoBev, and Grover Zampa, alongside a curated collection of international vintages from renowned wine-producing regions across France, Spain, Italy, South Africa, and beyond. This diversity ensures that there is something to intrigue every palate, from the novice explorer to the seasoned connoisseur.
Beyond the liquid artistry, Viva La Vino understands that a truly exceptional wine experience is incomplete without the perfect accompaniments. This year’s festival will showcase an array of artisanal cheeses from esteemed brands including The Cheese Collective, Melchior, Farmstead Bazpur, Meraki Cheese, and Kase. Complementing the cheese selection will be exquisite hand-crafted chocolates from Pascati, Darkins, and Noel, providing delightful pairings that enhance the nuanced flavors of the wines.
A significant new addition to the Viva La Vino experience is the exclusive Grand Cru Lounge. This premium space offers a more intimate and elevated experience, featuring wines by the glass, a gourmet dinner service, and extended after-hours access. This curated offering caters to those seeking a refined yet relaxed environment to further explore the festival’s highlights.
Embracing the festival’s ethos of social connection, Viva La Vino will also feature a unique Wine and Vinyl DJ set. Local talents Sunil Hubli and Arjun Hora will be spinning their records poolside, creating a vibrant and relaxed atmosphere where guests can mingle, enjoy great music, and, of course, savor exceptional wines. This fusion of sensory pleasures underscores the festival’s commitment to creating memorable moments and fostering a strong sense of community.
Charting the Future of Wine Appreciation in India
The organizers of Viva La Vino are keenly observing and actively participating in the evolving landscape of beverage culture in India. Gargi Kothari notes the growing interest in wine across various demographics, stating, "That is the thing about wine, it brings all kinds of people together, from various age groups." While seasoned wine drinkers are drawn by the quality and diversity of the offerings, the younger generation, she observes, is increasingly captivated by the narratives behind the wines. "The younger generation is more interested in the story behind what is in their glass," she adds, highlighting the appeal of the festival’s holistic approach that integrates wine with music, food, and community.
This evolving consumer interest is reflected in the festival’s lineup, which embraces contemporary trends in the beverage industry. While low-ABV (Alcohol By Volume) drinks have been gaining traction globally for several years, India’s scene is now rapidly catching up. Viva La Vino is at the forefront of this movement, featuring a dedicated stall by Dry Drnks, an online marketplace specializing in zero-proof spirits. This inclusion demonstrates a commitment to catering to diverse preferences and offering a broader spectrum of choices.
Furthermore, the festival is championing the rise of natural wines. These wines, produced with minimal intervention in both the vineyard and the cellar, are celebrated for their organic and sustainable approach to winemaking. Their inclusion aligns with a growing global appreciation for wines that reflect terroir and are crafted with an emphasis on environmental consciousness.
Devati Mallick expresses optimism about the festival’s growth trajectory: "We have a dynamic mix of importers from many regions and are expecting around 300-350 people at the event. Every year, we are seeing more interest and are increasing the scope, but we do not want it to be a massy event, we want to keep it a curated community gathering." This mindful approach to expansion ensures that Viva La Vino retains its intimate charm and focus on genuine connection, even as it grows in popularity and reach.
The festival’s commitment to fostering a community around wine is evident in its carefully planned expansion. Following the Bengaluru launch, Viva La Vino is scheduled to tour other major Indian metropolises, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Jaipur, Goa, and Pune. This multi-city approach aims to democratize wine appreciation across the country, making the Viva La Vino experience accessible to a wider audience and contributing to the burgeoning wine culture in each region.
Supporting Data and Market Trends
The burgeoning interest in wine in India is supported by several market indicators. While precise, up-to-the-minute data for the nascent 2026 market is still being compiled, industry reports from previous years have consistently shown a steady upward trend in wine consumption and production. The Indian wine market has been projected to grow at a significant Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) in the coming years, driven by factors such as increasing disposable incomes, a growing young urban population, and a greater exposure to global trends.
The rise of wine tourism, coupled with increased availability of diverse wine options through festivals and specialized retail outlets, is also contributing to this growth. The demand for experiential events like Viva La Vino is a direct reflection of consumers seeking not just products, but experiences that are educational, social, and enjoyable.
The inclusion of low-ABV and zero-proof options by brands like Dry Drnks also speaks to a broader shift in consumer preferences towards moderation and healthier lifestyle choices. This segment of the beverage market is experiencing rapid expansion, indicating a significant opportunity for innovation and catering to a wider range of consumer needs.
Natural wines, though still a niche segment, are gaining traction among discerning consumers who are increasingly interested in ethical sourcing, sustainability, and authentic production methods. The Viva La Vino festival’s proactive inclusion of these wines positions it as a forward-thinking event that caters to emerging trends and educated consumer tastes.
Official Responses and Future Outlook
Devati Mallick and Gargi Kothari, as the driving forces behind Viva La Vino, have consistently articulated their vision for a more inclusive and engaging wine culture in India. Their proactive approach to curating diverse offerings, from established Indian brands to international imports and emerging trends like zero-proof and natural wines, has been met with positive reception from both consumers and industry stakeholders.
Their emphasis on community building and experiential learning differentiates Viva La Vino from more traditional wine events. By fostering an environment where individuals can learn, connect, and enjoy without feeling intimidated, they are effectively expanding the appeal of wine to a broader audience.
The expansion plans to multiple cities indicate a strong belief in the scalability of their model and a commitment to nurturing wine appreciation across the nation. This ambitious vision, coupled with a meticulous attention to detail in event planning and guest experience, suggests a promising future for Viva La Vino as a leading platform for wine culture in India.
Implications for the Indian Beverage Industry and Consumers
The success and expansion of Viva La Vino have several significant implications for both the Indian beverage industry and its consumers.
For the Indian beverage industry, festivals like Viva La Vino serve as crucial platforms for:
- Brand Visibility and Promotion: They offer wineries, importers, and related businesses direct access to a engaged and targeted audience, facilitating brand awareness and sales.
- Market Trend Identification: The festival’s curated selection highlights emerging consumer preferences, providing valuable insights for industry players looking to innovate and adapt.
- Education and Skill Development: By demystifying wine, these events contribute to a more informed consumer base, driving demand for higher quality and more diverse products.
- Networking and Collaboration: Viva La Vino fosters connections between producers, distributors, and consumers, creating opportunities for partnerships and industry growth.
- Showcasing Indian Wines: The prominent inclusion of Indian labels helps to elevate their profile and compete on a global stage, encouraging further investment in the domestic wine industry.
For consumers, the implications are equally profound:
- Increased Accessibility and Affordability: By making wine tasting less intimidating and more affordable, Viva La Vino opens doors for a wider segment of the population to explore and enjoy wine.
- Enhanced Wine Knowledge and Appreciation: The festival provides an accessible learning environment, empowering consumers to make more informed choices and develop a deeper appreciation for the nuances of wine.
- Social Connection and Community Building: Viva La Vino offers a unique social setting where individuals can connect with like-minded people, fostering a sense of community around a shared passion.
- Exposure to Diverse Flavors and Trends: Attendees get to experience a wide spectrum of wines, including emerging categories like natural and zero-proof beverages, broadening their palates and understanding of the global beverage landscape.
- A More Engaging Leisure Experience: The festival’s holistic approach, integrating wine with food, music, and social interaction, provides a rich and memorable leisure activity.
In conclusion, Viva La Vino is more than just a wine festival; it is a movement aimed at transforming how India experiences and appreciates wine. By championing accessibility, fostering community, and staying ahead of emerging trends, Devati Mallick and Gargi Kothari are not only making wine tasting fun but are also playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of wine culture across the nation. The third season’s launch in Bengaluru marks another exciting chapter in this flavorful journey.
The tickets for the Viva La Vino festival are priced at ₹2,750 upwards. The event is scheduled for September 26th, starting at 6 PM, at The Lalit Ashok Bangalore, Kumarakrupa Road. For more details and to purchase tickets, visit urbanaut.app.
