If you’re anything like me—someone who believes wine deserves its own food group—a wine trail trip is the best indulgence. My recent three-day escapade, hosted by the Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik was a delightful journey of grape-filled bliss. I savoured some of India’s finest wines, dined on exquisite cuisine, and pampered myself in ways I hadn’t imagined possible. I returned home with a treasure trove of memories, a more refined palate, and far too many pictures of vineyards. Here’s how it all unfolded.
I arrived at the stunning Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa in Nashik, ready for a weekend of wine-fueled adventures. The check-in was as warm as it was seamless, complete with chilled drinks and welcoming smiles. I was then whisked off to my room—a chic, cosy space with elegant decor that felt like the perfect blend of luxury and comfort. Lunch was at The Smoked Vine, with Tuscan-inspired dishes that tasted as though they were transported straight from Italy, I indulged in creamy burrata, creamy risotto, and wood-fired pizza so divine that I briefly contemplated never leaving. But the vineyards awaited.
By late afternoon, we headed to Vallonne Winery, where rows of vines stretched endlessly, heavy with promise. The crisp scent of fermenting grapes filled the air as our guide took us through the winemaking process. I nodded along like a seasoned oenophile, though the highlight was, unsurprisingly, the wine tasting. Their Anokhee Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 was simply perfection. By the time we returned to the hotel for an alfresco dinner at Le Bistro, my cheeks were rosy—whether from the wine or the cool evening air, I couldn’t tell. The evening featured a sumptuous seven-course meal paired with a curated selection of wines. Guided by the chef, each dish blended local flavours with creative fusion elements.
The next morning began with a hearty breakfast back at The Smoked Vine. Fluffy pancakes, buttery croissants, and plenty of coffee fueled me for the day ahead. Dressed in breezy pastels, we set off for Chandon Winery, where we toured the sparkling wine facility. Bottles of bubbly glimmered like jewels, but the real highlight was the brunch. Overflowing charcuterie boards (worthy of a Pinterest board), delicious bites, and another wine-tasting session left me floating. My personal favourite was a chilled Brut paired with a gooey brie—a pairing that felt like a warm hug for my taste buds.
The evening, however, was the pièce de résistance: a guided wine-tasting session at the India Wine Studio, I learned the art of swirling, sniffing, and sipping, transforming the session into an engaging mix of education and indulgence. Dinner that night served under the stars at Varuni Terrace, was a magical affair. The air buzzed with laughter, the food was exquisite, and the wine flowed endlessly.
The final morning started with one last breakfast at The Smoked Vine before heading to the spa for the crowning glory of my trip: Vinotherapy. If you’re unfamiliar, vinotherapy uses wine and grape extracts in skincare treatments. Admittedly sceptical at first, I was won over the moment the therapist began the red wine massage. As the rich antioxidants in the grape extracts were absorbed into my skin, I felt my stress dissolve like sugar in champagne. I left the spa feeling rejuvenated, glowing, and—if I’m honest—slightly smelling of Merlot.
As I checked out of the hotel, I reflected on the past few days. The wine trails at Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik had been everything I’d hoped for—luxurious, enlightening, and deeply relaxing. From the vineyards and indulgent meals to the transformative spa session, it was a getaway that fed my soul and filled my Instagram feed.
