Paladin has taken a significant step in strengthening its presence in India’s growing premium wine market by acquiring a 25 percent stake in Morgan Beverages. The move signals Paladin’s intent to deepen its footprint in the country while tapping into rising demand beyond metro cities.
India’s alco beverage landscape is currently seeing a clear shift in consumer behaviour. While global markets remain sluggish, Indian consumers are becoming more informed, experimental, and willing to pay for quality. Wine, once limited to niche circles, is now finding a place at everyday dining tables, social gatherings, and lifestyle occasions. This cultural shift has created room for premium imported labels to grow steadily.
Morgan Beverages, founded by Rohan Nihalani, has built a strong reputation in the imported wine segment through careful portfolio curation and market education. With Paladin coming on board, the partnership aims to scale faster and reach Tier II and Tier III cities where interest in wine is rising but access remains limited. Improved distribution and localized engagement are expected to be key focus areas.
According to Nihalani, social drinking in India is growing at nearly 25 percent annually, and wine is increasingly seen as a lifestyle choice rather than an occasional indulgence. Paladin’s goal is to secure a meaningful leadership position in the premium imported wine category over the next few years.
The collaboration also reflects growing investor confidence in India’s evolving alcohol market, particularly in categories that emphasize experience and sophistication. As regulatory barriers ease gradually and consumer awareness continues to improve, the Indian wine market appears poised for long term expansion. Paladin’s investment in Morgan Beverages positions both companies to benefit from this momentum and shape how premium wine is consumed across the country.
