For some time the Mudhol Hound has been the most famous product of Mudhol, a small town in northern Karnataka.  This may be about to change with the establishment there of Elite Vintage Winery (EVW), which has financial backing from private investors and venture capitalists.

The business was established in September 2008, and is led by Vinod Guraddi.  As a farmer’s son he understands the agricultural practises and constraints of the region, but has a savvy business acumen developed in part through conducting business overseas.  He’s not been too proud to look for assistance from Indian wine pioneers and seeking technical assistance from Sula Wines would seem to have been a particularly sensible move.  The relationship with Sula extends to EVW producing a portion of their wine products for sale with Sula branding.  In this way the Maharashtra-based Sula Vineyards is able to circumvent the tariff imposed on wines imported into Karnataka.

The Elite Vintage vineyards, which cover some 70 ha, are devoted to Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz. 

The winery has been fitted out with equipment from Europe and has a total capacity of 0.75 million litres. Their first vintage was in 2009 and as of 2013 was available only in Karnataka.  There are plans to bring EVW wines to other states and for a new winery at Mudhol. 

Winery Location

Tasting Notes