What comes to mind when you hear the word "wine"? Luxury, France, Italy? You might be surprised, but Bali is also known for its wine! Many people are unaware that this tropical island grows its own grapes in the Buleleng area, located on the northern coast of Bali.
How does local winemaking survive in the island's hot climate, and how much does wine cost in Bali? If you're not planning to detox from alcohol, attend retreats, or meditate, this article is for you.
The selection of wine on the island isn't vast, and prices aren't very friendly, mainly due to high excise taxes. Just imagine, there's a 150% markup on imported wine and spirits! But there is a solution.
Sababay Winery
The best local wine producer is Sababay Winery, which produces around 800,000 bottles annually. Sababay was founded in 2010 by Indonesian entrepreneur Mulyati Gozali, who is now the head of the company. Her goal was to empower farmers and develop Indonesia's agricultural potential.
Essentially, it’s a cooperative of over a hundred small farmers growing grapes in northern Bali. The Gozali family had the brilliant idea of uniting local farmers and consolidating production into a single operation. Today, their collection includes white, rosé, and red wines made from Muscat and Alphonse Lavallée grapes.
Due to the absence of winter and dormancy, grapevines in Bali produce several harvests a year. However, to improve quality, Sababay’s French winemaker Nicolas Delacresonnière reduced the harvest to twice a year, avoiding the rainy season.
The brand's name, Sababay, comes from the winery's location on the shores of the beautiful Saba Bay (Teluk Saba) in Gianyar, Bali.
Interestingly, Sababay Winery is the only winery in Indonesia that produces sacramental Catholic wine. The founder, a Catholic herself, had long dreamed of producing sacred wine. For this, the winery requires approval from the Vatican. However, such wine cannot be sold. After receiving the Vatican's approval, the sacramental wine is sent to the central Catholic Church in Jakarta, from where it is distributed to Catholic churches throughout Indonesia.
Where is it located?
For those tired of beaches, rice fields, and temples in Bali, or just looking for a different experience, the winery offers guided tours. Anyone can visit. As mentioned, the winery is located in the Gianyar area.
Tour and wine tasting
A guided tour in either English or Indonesian costs from 180,000 rupiah per person, and can be booked on the winery's website. The tour takes you through the factory, where you'll learn about the brand, its history, and the winemaking process—from harvesting and fermentation to bottling. We were even lucky enough to see sommelier Nicolas, originally from Bordeaux, at work.
After the tour and detailed observation of the winemaking process, you can treat yourself to a tasting of three different wines—the highlight of the tour. The table will be beautifully set with gourmet snacks, cheeses, and fruits, offering a refined and delicious experience. By joining this fascinating tour, you'll surely gain a new appreciation for Indonesian wine!
Interestingly, Sababay collaborated with Indonesian chefs to create perfect pairings with local dishes. For instance, the red wine Black Velvet pairs well with chicken wrapped in banana leaves, while the aromatic rosé Pink Blossom can be served with Sate Lilit or Gado-Gado with peanut sauce. The dry white White Velvet is a good match for fish dishes with sweet chili sauce.
How much does Balinese wine cost?
The selection of wines is impressive, and the prices are quite affordable. The wines in the Velvet range are priced at up to 200,000 rupiah per bottle. The Reserve wines are slightly more expensive, at 260,000 rupiah. This range uses both local grapes and imported grapes from Victoria, Australia. Sparkling wines cost up to 300,000 rupiah.
You can find the full selection and prices on the winery’s website.
You can add one right now!