Wine Taster Sahil Misra Opens Up On His Journey As A Sommelier And The Art of Wine Tasting
- Vanya Jain
- Jan 14
- 6 min read
Interviewed By Vanya Jain
Edited & Presented By Delhi Royale
Content
Overview | In conversation with Sahil Misra – a certified wine sommelier, connoisseur, and passionate advocate for the world of fine wines
Wine Sommelier
Meet Sahil Misra, a distinguished sommelier with a wealth of experience that spans the globe. As the Brand Ambassador for Sula Wines in North and East India, he’s at the forefront of wine and spirits expertise. A proud recipient of the prestigious Court of Master Sommeliers’ Certified Sommelier award on his first attempt, Sahil’s career includes impactful roles with Indri Single Malt, The Oberoi Hotels, and renowned beverage brands like Bira Beers and Camikara Rum. With a passion for education and innovation, Sahil has been instrumental in developing India’s first wine and spirits online certification course and shaping beverage programs for India’s finest dining establishments. His global collaborations, wine event curations, and influence in the beverage world make him a true authority in his field.
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Dive into the world of wine with Sahil Misra in our exclusive interview, as he reveals expert tips and the art of perfect wine tasting.
Your journey as a sommelier seems quite exceptional. How did you begin this journey, and what drove you to pursue this profession?
Growing up in the picturesque town of Shimla, I was always captivated by unique and refined experiences. Although I pursued science during my high school education, my true passion lay in the culinary world. From an early age, I was mesmerized by food and travel shows on TLC, often spending hours absorbing every bit of knowledge about gastronomy and beverages. My fascination grew stronger as I delved into books and articles, fueling my curiosity and shaping my aspirations.
My journey was further enriched by my travels across India. From the snow-capped peaks of Himachal to the islands of the Andamans, every region had a story to tell. These stories, steeped in culture and tradition, inspired me to become a storyteller myself, and I realized that beverages, particularly wine, could serve as a medium to share these narratives.
I owe much of my journey to the unwavering support of my family and the guidance of incredible mentors who believed in my vision and encouraged me to pursue this path. Their encouragement gave me the confidence to explore the fascinating world of wine.
What truly drew me to wine was its multidimensional nature. It’s not merely a beverage; it’s a compelling blend of history, politics, chemistry, and geography. The intricate balance of complexity and elegance in wine presented a challenge that was both exciting and rewarding. I was determined to not only understand and master this art but also to share its rich tapestry of stories with the world.
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As the Brand Ambassador of Sula Wines for North and East India, what challenges do you face in representing such a renowned brand, and how do you ensure it resonates with luxury connoisseurs?
Representing Sula, the pioneer of Indian wine making, is less of a challenge and more of a responsibility. For many Indians, their first encounter with wine happens with a Sula bottle—a fact that makes our role as ambassadors crucial. The real challenge lies in demystifying wine for new consumers, ensuring they don’t feel intimidated by its perceived complexity.
To appeal to luxury connoisseurs, Sula has significantly upped its game with exclusive collections like ‘The Source’ and ‘RASA.’ These premium offerings, paired with events such as Art India in Mumbai, the Polo tournaments in Jaipur, the Jazz Festival, and collaborations with museums, have successfully positioned Sula at the intersection of art, culture, and luxury. It’s a privilege to weave these narratives and showcase Indian wine on such platforms.
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You recently secured the first runner-up position at the Cigar Smoking World Championship for the India Chapter. How did this experience shape your approach to fine wines and spirits?
The cigar-smoking championship was a completely new territory for me since I’m not a smoker by habit. I owe this achievement to my mentors, Rahul Kapoor and Justin Khoidaji, who introduced me to this art form. Cigars have a storied history of pairing with fine wines and spirits, a tradition that has fascinated connoisseurs for centuries. What struck me was the craft behind cigar smoking—the precision, patience, and sensory awareness it demands. These are qualities that mirror the appreciation of fine wines and spirits. This experience deepened my understanding of pairing and enhanced my storytelling, making me a more nuanced sommelier.
Wine Expert Sahil Misra
Your role in creating India’s first online wine and spirits certification course and the Young Sommelier’s Olympiad with Indulge India is groundbreaking. How will this shape the future of luxury beverage education in India?
All credit goes to my mentor, Gagan Sharma, whose vision has steered Indulge India to achieve many “firsts” in beverage education. These initiatives are transforming the professional landscape by offering structured pathways for growth. The Young Sommelier’s Olympiad (YSO), for instance, has opened international doors for young talent—from working at Michelin-starred establishments to pursuing advanced sommelier certifications or becoming brand ambassadors.
India’s luxury beverage education is evolving rapidly. These programs are not only producing skilled professionals but are also fostering a sense of pride and excellence in representing Indian wine and spirits on global platforms.
Wine Tasting Specialist
With your extensive certifications, including the Court of Master Sommeliers and Wine & Spirit Education Trust from London, how do you see wine education evolving in India’s luxury hospitality space?
Indian consumers are becoming increasingly well-traveled and discerning, which is driving the demand for refined wine education. What sets India apart is its culinary diversity; our palates are among the most sophisticated in the world, evolving every 20 kilometers with regional cuisines and flavors. In the luxury hospitality space, this rich cultural tapestry is being paired with the technical expertise of professionals like us. By bridging global wine knowledge with India’s unique gastronomic traditions, we are creating experiences that are as educational as they are indulgent. The future is bright, and I’m excited to be part of this journey.
Wine Taster Sahil Misra
Having worked with Indri Single Malt and Kamet Single Malt Whisky, you’ve been at the forefront of the Indian spirits industry. What, in your opinion, makes these Indian brands stand out in the global luxury market?
India’s relationship with fine spirits has always been robust, but now we are seeing a renaissance in craftsmanship. Brands like Indri and Kamet exemplify this evolution. They blend innovation with tradition, using local ingredients and techniques to create world-class products. These characters adds layers of complexity that rival the best whiskies globally.
These brands are putting India on the map as a producer of premium spirits. It’s a proud moment to see our heritage and innovation being recognized and celebrated worldwide.
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Lastly, what are your goals for the future of India’s wine and spirits industry, and how do you plan to shape that future?
My primary goal is to eliminate the intimidation factor surrounding wine and spirits. These are not mysterious or elitist beverages; they are meant to be enjoyed in ways that resonate personally with the consumer. Whether it’s a casual glass of wine at home or a sophisticated pairing at a Taj or Leela, the key is to make these experiences approachable and enjoyable.
To achieve this, I aim to continue educating through storytelling, bridging the gap between technical knowledge and relatable narratives. As I like to say, I aspire to be ‘Your Friendly Neighborhood Somm,’ making wine and spirits accessible to all while celebrating their artistry and tradition.
Top Influencer In India
Sahil Misra’s unparalleled expertise and passion for wine and spirits have made him a pioneer in India’s beverage industry. From his influential roles to his commitment to education and innovation, Sahil continues to shape the future of the sommelier profession, inspiring both professionals and enthusiasts alike.
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Imagine Stepping Into The World Of Exquisite Wines With Sahil Misra, A Seasoned Wine Taster And Expert Sommelier. As An Influential Instagram Content Creator And One Of The Top Influencers In India, Sahil Brings His Expertise To Your Fingertips, Offering Exclusive Tips On Wine Tasting And Spirits. Follow His Journey And Get Insights From A True Wine Specialist To Enhance Your Wine Experience Like Never Before At Delhi Royale Luxury Lifestyle Blog https://www.delhiroyale.in/luxury-lifestyle-blog
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