JAKARTA – “There is no bad time to drink wine,” says wine connoisseur Pritha Casadevall. However, if she had to choose, she wouldn’t miss her long Friday lunches accompanied by a great glass of wine.
“Opt for something easy, like prosecco, white wine, or a nice rosé. Enjoy a relaxed conversation with friends and just unwind. Overseas, this is common practice due to shorter workdays. After a hectic week, it’s a wonderful way to reward and refresh yourself,” Pritha explained.
Wine drinking transcends mere consumption; it’s an event—a way to explore global flavors, worthy of careful study. There’s a sophistication and culture attached to those who master the art of savoring wine. It’s no surprise that Indonesia’s wine enthusiasts were initially seasoned travelers.
“These travelers observed how wine is a daily staple in other countries and incorporated it into their habits upon returning to Indonesia,” said Pritha, who runs the Jakarta Wine Club Series and founded the Jakarta Wine Festival. “Now, even the younger generation is eager to embrace the wine-drinking culture, despite not having traveled extensively.”
Jakarta is witnessing a surge in wine bars, with tasting rooms offering impressive selections. Patrons can expect knowledgeable bartenders who guide them through their choices without intimidation.
“Wine is often associated with formal occasions, typically enjoyed with a full meal, which is why red wines are more popular,” noted Juan Diaz, CEO of Indowines and Plaga.
This contrasts with Bali, where wine is available at nearly every restaurant, including small outdoor shacks, and is enjoyed casually with lunch or dinner midweek. The wine scene in Bali is much more relaxed, with people sipping sauvignon blanc, white wines, and rosé at the beach or on terraces, paired with light foods and appetizers, according to Juan.
Indonesia’s growing wine scene reflects a blend of tradition and modernity, appealing to both seasoned connoisseurs and a younger, curious generation.
