The Sommelier India Pour

Rory McIlroy, and a $4,000 Wine Bottle

Rory McIlroy, World no. 1 may have had a subdued showing at the PGA Championship, but the story of the week emerged later at a quieter, elegant celebration tied to the US Masters tournament. On the Sunday of the Masters, as Mcllroy left the 18th green he was met with a bone-crushing hug by his longtime friend Shane Lowry. But Lowry, never one to keep festivities modest, wanted something more. So he sought out Augusta’ National Club's head sommelier, a high ranking professional whose job is among the most prestigious in golf, and made the unusual request to purchase a few cases of wine from the club’s private cellar stocked with the finest and rarest vintages in the world.

Now everyone knows Augusta National doesn’t allow its wines to be taken out of the premises, but Lowry was not to be deterred and his charm (and perhaps persistence) won the day. He was permitted to purchase a one case of the 1990 vintage of Château Lafite Rothschild, among the most esteemed wines in Bordeaux’s long history. Known for its muscular body and layered complexity—notes of blackcurrant, cedar, and cigar box—it’s a wine that commands both reverence and a steep price tag, running between $1,000 and $4,000 for a 750ml bottle. That night, McIlroy and Lowry toasted each other in the glow of vintage Lafite, sharing glasses of a wine once gifted to Jack Nicklaus by Augusta’s chairman himself. What began as a hug on the 18th green ended with a celebration soaked not just in friendship and history, but in one of the world’s most luxurious wines, a fitting vintage to mark a moment that deserved to be celebrated.

Explore Burgundy: A Rare Wine Tour Opportunity

Renowned wine writer and educator Raymond Blake—author of Breakfast in Burgundy, longtime contributor to Sommelier India, and former Wine Editor of Food & Wine magazine in Ireland is leading a series of exceptional wine tours through Burgundy in 2025. His itinerary includes private groups from London and Harvard, as well as a celebratory July tour for a 50th birthday. The final tour, taking place in October, is open to the public and currently has just two places remaining. Hosted in partnership with Iberian Wine Tours, this journey promises an insider's experience of Burgundy's storied vineyards, legendary producers, and unforgettable cuisine. Full details and registration can be found here: Burgundy, October 2025.

With decades of expertise, deep regional knowledge, and an engaging storytelling style, Raymond Blake brings the wines of Burgundy to life like few others can. While Iberian Wine Tours lists only their ‘open’ tours online, the company also crafts bespoke itineraries for private groups and global societies—offering exclusive access to some of Europe’s most iconic wine regions, including Bordeaux and Portugal’s Douro Valley. For wine lovers looking to experience Burgundy through the eyes of a master, this October tour offers a rare opportunity not to be missed.

Experience Italy’s Best Wines in Mumbai

The Top Italian Wines Roadshow by Gambero Rosso, a prestigious international event celebrating Italy's finest winemaking traditions, is making its highly anticipated return to Mumbai on 23rd May 2025 at the Jio World Convention Centre. This exclusive showcase brings together over 50 leading Italian wine producers, offering Indian wine professionals an unmatched opportunity to explore a curated selection of over 100 award-winning wines from regions like Tuscany, Piedmont, and Sicily—many of which are featured in the globally acclaimed Vini d’Italia 2025 guide. The day will feature immersive masterclasses led by Italian wine experts, a Top Italian Restaurants Awards Ceremony, and a special appearance by the Consorzio Prosecco DOC, reinforcing the event’s commitment to both education and excellence.

As India’s wine market expands rapidly, with a projected CAGR of 14% by 2030, the Mumbai edition is a pivotal moment to connect with global leaders in wine, hospitality, and retail. For sommeliers, importers, retailers, and hoteliers, this is more than a tasting—it’s a celebration of heritage, innovation, and collaboration. Whether you're deepening your expertise or seeking new partnerships, the Top Italian Wines Roadshow is a must-attend event for anyone shaping India’s future in fine wine. Admission is free but by invitation only, so professionals are encouraged to pre-register at Gambero Rosso International and RSVP to [email protected]. Don’t miss your chance to raise a glass to Italy’s best—right here in Mumbai.