Transcript and Answers: Wine making takes root in long-isolated Myanmar

Myanmar might be more famous for its struggle for democracy. But in the clouded hills of Shan State maverick wine makers have been toiling for years to put the country on the map for the quality of its grapes. 

"The white wine, our sauvignon blanc is the best white wine in Myanmar. In December, January we have night time two or three degrees only. It’s cold and that produces the nice aromas which the especially white wine has to live from and the acidity which we need for white wine." 

The challenges are significant, with short days in the peak budding season and voracious fungal attacks, only a few hardy grape varieties are able to grow. But at 1,000 metres above sea level and more, both vineyards in the region say altitude is a major factor in their success. Proximity to the major tourist hub of Inle Lake has also helped raise this vineyard's profile. 

"Inle Lake is a very touristic place. It receives almost all the tourists who come to Myanmar, they come to see Inle Lake. And we have started to become a tourist attraction of the lake, so we have more and more tourists." 

Crisp whites are the highlight at both establishments. But it's the reds that fly off the shelves as the whisky-loving country begins to get a taste for wine. From Shiraz to Chardonnay, produce from the winery is mainly destined for the tourist hot spots of Yangon, Mandalay and Bagan, where Western holidaymakers are often surprised to be able to sample a bottle of locally-grown wine. This visiting connoisseur gives it the thumbs up. 

"It is very interesting indeed, but let's be clear, interesting in a good way. I liked the Pinot Noir a lot, it had aromatic qualities that are a little bit different from what we do, but with interesting character." 

Here on the lake, signs that tourism is booming are easy to spot, providing much needed income for local people. And while it'll take a few more years for the vineyards to see a dramatic rise in demand, there's hope that Myanmar wine is also in for a rosy future. 

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