What do you get when you bring together iconic wines, beautifully paired food, and a room full of curious, passionate people? A genuinely memorable afternoon — and one I was fortunate to be a part of.
On June 23rd, the South Australian Wine Reception was hosted at Riwaz, The Ritz-Carlton, Bengaluru by the Government of South Australia, in honour of Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC, Governor of South Australia. The event was held in association with the Bangalore Wine Club and I had the privilege of being part of it.
It wasn’t just a tasting — it was a moment of exchange, one that connected two distinct cultures through wine and food.
Celebrating Presence, People & Place
The reception was graced by some truly inspiring individuals. Her Excellency Frances Adamson spoke with clarity and warmth, sharing South Australia’s global perspective on trade, culture, and sustainability. She was joined by Ms. Hilary McGeachy, Consul-General of Australia in Bengaluru, and Mr. Tim White, representing the Department for Trade and Investment – South Australia, who anchored the event with insight and grace.
Together, they set the tone for a reception that was as diplomatic as it was delicious.
When Wine Meets the Indian Table
I had the opportunity to introduce guests to a range of wines from South Australia’s leading producers — each one chosen to show off the depth, diversity, and food-friendliness of the region.
What made the experience stand out was how seamlessly these wines paired with Indian flavours. The pairings were curated not just for balance, but for storytelling — combining local favourites with South Australian ingredients in inventive, memorable ways.
Some of the pairings that stood out:
Penfolds Koonunga Hill Chardonnay with Coffin Bay oysters and a platter of cheeses paired with Beerenberg jams — a pairing that brought acidity, creaminess and sweetness into perfect harmony.
Killibinbin Shiver Chardonnay, full of tropical fruit and finesse, matched with a bold chicken tikka kulcha and blue cheese — an unexpected yet rewarding fusion.
The classic Penfolds Shiraz, known for its plum and pepper notes, stood up beautifully to a butter chicken layered with San Remo lasagna sheets — a playful, Indo-Australian hybrid. It also complemented a grilled romaine and broccoli dish with almonds and romesco.
Two Hands ‘Gnarly Dudes’ Shiraz brought that signature Barossa intensity to the plate — pairing effortlessly with tandoori South Australian lamb chops.
And for vegetarians, the d’Arenberg Footbolt Shiraz with saag burrata and mini missi rotis showed how rich red wine and plant-forward dishes can sing together.
Tasting Table Highlights
Guests also had the chance to taste from a broader lineup of South Australian wines at the tasting tables. Standouts included:
Yalumba Y Series Chardonnay (unoaked and bright)
Henschke Julius Riesling (crisp and dry)
Henschke Keyneton Euphonium (a masterful red blend)
Metala White Label Shiraz (smooth and generous)
19 Crimes Shiraz (fruit-forward and easygoing)
What Makes South Australian Wine Special?
There’s a reason South Australia holds its place as a Great Wine Capital of the World. With 18 distinct wine regions, from Barossa and McLaren Vale to Clare Valley and Eden Valley, the diversity of terroir is matched only by its legacy.
The region is phylloxera-free, home to some of the oldest continuously producing vines in the world, and leads the way in sustainable viticulture — with nearly 70% of vineyards certified under Sustainable Winegrowing Australia.
These wines are expressive, authentic, and rooted in a deep respect for land and craft.
A Toast to Cross-Cultural Conversations
This wasn’t just about wine. It was about connection. It was about seeing how flavours, conversations, and cultures intersect when people gather around a table. That’s what made the afternoon so meaningful — and why I’m truly grateful to have been part of it.
My thanks to the Government of South Australia, the Department for Trade and Investment, the Consulate, the Bangalore Wine Club, and the fantastic Ritz-Carlton team for making it all come together with such style and heart.
Here’s to more of these moments — where the glass in your hand becomes the start of a new conversation.
Cheers,
Abhay Kewadkar
