Bhutan

In the early 1990s, an experimental vineyard was established in Paro, Bhutan, at an altitude of approximately 2,300 meters. The Australian wine company Taltarni provided technical assistance for this project. However, it remains unclear whether these initial efforts led to successful wine production. In April 2019, the Bhutan Wine Company, a U.S.-based enterprise in partnership with Bhutanese collaborators, planted the country's first fine wine vineyards. The initial planting occurred at the Yusipang Vineyard, followed by additional vineyards in Bajo, Paro, and Lingmethang. These vineyards feature a variety of classic grape varietals, including Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Malbec, and Petit Manseng. As of 2024, the Bhutan Wine Company is set to release its inaugural wine, produced from the 2023 vintage. This debut features a unique blend made from six varieties of red grapes and four varieties of white grapes harvested from four distinct vineyards, all under the label Ser Kem. While there are local wine labels in Bhutan, such as Takin Red Wine and Vintria Shiraz Dry Wine, it is important to note that some of these products may not be made solely from locally grown grapes. In fact, certain wines labeled as Bhutanese are produced in India and imported into the country.