01
Before
- Traditional jury-led, blind-tasting competition
- Medals awarded through category comparison
- Recognition centred around the awards season
IWS Ratings by Sonal C Holland — India’s Definitive Wines And Spirits Ratings.
The Evolution
IWS Ratings by Sonal C Holland 2026: A New Era Begins
India's most credible wines and spirits platform enters a new era. For nearly a decade, it recognised excellence through jury-led competition and awards. In 2026, India Wine and Spirit Award became India Wines and Spirits Ratings by Sonal C Holland, moving from jury-led competition to individual, expert-led assessment. It adopts an open and absolute evaluation methodology built on individual merit, not comparison.
Every wine and spirit is now scored independently on a 100-point scale by Sonal C Holland, MW, India's first and only Master of Wine. Rather than comparing entries against each other, each is judged on its own merit against a single, absolute-scoring approach. The result is a ratings platform built on one clear, calibrated voice: distinctive, dependable recommendations for consumers and the trade.
Master of Wine
Sonal C Holland
Before · Transition · Now
Same Commitment, New System, Authentic Scores
01Open Assessment
Each nominee is tasted with full knowledge of its identity, origin, style, price and positioning.
02Absolute Scoring
Every entry is assessed independently on its own merit, never against other nominees in the same category.
03100-Point Scale
A clear, globally recognised score that effectively communicates quality to trade and consumers.
Why Nominate
Key Benefits
Built for Trade & Consumers
01
Credible Expert Rating
Scores and notes from India's first Master of Wine — trusted by trade and discerning consumers.
02
Consumer & Trade Discovery
Stand out where buyers and drinkers look for quality they can trust.
03
Year-Round Visibility
Recognition that lasts beyond awards season — searchable scores all year.
04
Marketing & Recognition
Official assets and standing to support premium positioning and storytelling.
Take the Next Step
Your Nomination Journey
- 01
Submit Your Nomination
Complete the online nomination form and payment process by 14th August 2026.
- 02
Deliver Your Sample
Send one bottle of every nominated wine or spirit between 24th-26th August 2026.
- 03
Product Evaluation
All nominated products are tasted and rated by Sonal C Holland during August-September 2026.
- 04
Ratings Announcement
The official ratings are unveiled on 15th October 2026 at the Celebration Soirée in Mumbai.
- 05
Year-Round Recognition
Published scores, tasting notes and official guidebook extend recognition beyond the announcement.