About
Indulge your curiosity and master the craft at India’s top beverage school. We firmly believe that education is the key to unlocking the nuances of the diverse world of beverages.
The Indian School of Beverages (ISB) was established in 2018 by Akshay Gharat and Viraj Sawant, each boasting over a decade of experience in the hospitality and beverage industry. Collaborating since late 2017, Akshay and Viraj successfully brought the Court of Master Sommeliers’ Introductory and Certified Sommelier courses to Mumbai. Our primary objective was to introduce internationally recognized, high-quality beverage courses to hospitality students and working professionals in India. The Court of Master Sommeliers in India has consistently demonstrated exceptional performance, providing a comprehensive program designed to train and educate aspiring sommeliers. With hundreds of students undertaking this journey, the program has steadfastly upheld its commitment to imparting knowledge and practical training in the world of wines, guided by established Master Sommeliers.
Our journey commenced with a simple yet profound mission – to elevate the beverage experience in India by cultivating a deep understanding and appreciation for fine wines.
Recognizing the escalating interest and demand for a structured, globally recognized education program catering to enthusiasts of all expertise levels, we introduced Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) courses to our offerings in 2023. By providing WSET courses in India, our goal is to empower beginners, enthusiasts, professionals, and connoisseurs alike, nurturing a culture that values the artistry and craftsmanship behind every sip.
We firmly believe that education is the key to unlocking the nuances of the diverse world of beverages, and our prestigious programs align seamlessly with our commitment to delivering the highest quality knowledge and training. As the programs progress, they are poised to produce a new generation of skilled sommeliers who will shape and contribute to the dynamic landscape of the wine industry in India and beyond. Many students from ISB have excelled in prominent food and beverage establishments, bringing us great satisfaction as we contribute, in our modest way, to the flourishing sommelier and wine culture in India.
Whether you’re a budding connoisseur or a seasoned professional, our courses are tailored to cultivate expertise, foster a deep appreciation for varietals, and elevate the standards of beverage service across the country. Join us on this delightful journey of discovery and refinement as we raise a toast to the rich heritage and evolving palate of Indian beverage enthusiasts. Cheers!
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WSET Success rate
CMS Introductory students
CMS Certified Sommeliers
Our Founders
Viraj Sawant
With 15 years of expertise in the wine industry, including five years in the vibrant London wine scene at Michelin-starred restaurants under Master Sommeliers, Viraj Sawant is the cofounder of Indian School of Beverages. Viraj holds the distinguished title of Advanced Sommelier from the Court of Master Sommeliers Europe. In a pivotal move for the Indian wine education landscape, he played a key role in bringing Court of Master Sommeliers courses to India in 2017, securing exclusivity for the country.
Viraj’s entrepreneurial spirit also shines through as the founder of InACan Cocktails, a crafted canned cocktail brand that made waves by being featured on Shark Tank India Season 1.
Akshay Gharat
WSET Level 3 in Wine & Spirit
Akshay Gharat, co-founder of the Indian School of Beverages, brings over 12 years of distinguished experience in the hospitality and beverage industry. Holding the esteemed WSET Level 3 in Wine and Spirits, Akshay is also a Certified Sommelier recognized by the Court of Master Sommeliers Europe. His professional journey has been immersive, encompassing various facets such as hotels, restaurants, retail, sales, and marketing.
Akshay’s profound understanding of the Indian wine landscape is foundational to the Indian School of Beverages, a platform dedicated fostering knowledge and excellence in beverage education. His proficiency in the Indian market has been instrumental in the successful initiation and operation of renowned international wine courses, including those offered by the Court of Master Sommeliers and the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) in India.
