Stories of the nominees

Sonal Holland MW Reinforces Her Status as a Leader of India’s Wine Scene

India

The summer of 2025 marked a milestone for Sonal Holland – the first and only woman in India to earn the prestigious Master of Wine title. Since the inaugural year of the Wine Travel Awards (WTA), Sonal Holland has been a nominee and winner of this global project as Ambassador of the Year.

Sonal Holland

In June, she unveiled The Holland House – an elegant five-bedroom villa located in the heart of the Nashik wine region. Styled after French châteaux and Tuscan estates, this exquisite retreat is designed for tastings, wine retreats, and gatherings framed by enchanting vineyard views – a new step forward in the development of India’s wine tourism.

Sonal Holland

On the international stage, Holland delivered a keynote speech at Vinexpo Asia 2025 in Singapore, stating that “India is the next big opportunity for the wine world.” She emphasized the rapid growth of wine interest, especially among youth and women, and drew attention to the importance of investing in consumer culture and education.

At the same time, Sonal continues to develop the Sonal Holland Wine Academy, launching in April a new online course – “60 Minute Wine Pro” – created for HoReCa professionals and wine enthusiasts. This certification program makes wine education accessible and practical, growing a new generation of wine experts across the country.

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Source and photo: hospitalitybizindia.com, hotelierindia.com, vino-joy.com, sonalholland.com, hospitality.economictimes.indiatimes.com, luxebook.in