Wine sourced from locally grown grapes, peaches and plums, Dema Wine in Trashi Yangtse is much sought-after. However, the winemaker is challenged with a shortage of glass wine bottles which is making it difficult to meet the demand.
51-year-old Dema started making wine in 2020 after receiving training from the Agriculture Research and Development Center at Wengkhar in Monggar.
She buys grapes, peaches, and plums from farmers in Trashi Yangtse. The fruits are then washed, dried, and fermented in a store attached to her house. Some of Dema’s wines are fermented for more than three years.
Once the wine is ready, Dema said it needs to be stored in glass bottles to preserve the taste. Wine in other packaging affects the taste and also the shelf life.
Her wines, particularly the grape wines are popular amongst the people. However, she is only able to package 20 bottles a day. This is because Dema has not been able to buy glass bottles from India hindering her business.
“The problem is we do not get bottles for packaging. We collect used peach wine bottles, treat them, and reuse them. If there are bottles, it can boost our business relatively more,” said Dema.
Dema buys used glass bottles from people and the bottles undergo high-heat treatment to ensure they are free from contaminants.
“I collect used bottles and bring them to her to sell. It benefits both of us as I get money and she gets the bottles for packing. It’s better to sell the bottles. Otherwise, they break and become wastes,” said Kunzang Lhamo, a resident at Dhokorbam of Yangtse Gewog, Trashi Yangtse.
Dema currently sells a bottle of wine for Nu 150.
To expand her business and meet the demand, she plans to apply for a loan and procure bottles from India soon.
Ngawang Tenzin, Trashi Yangste
Edited by Sangay Chezom
