From Marathons to Merlots
Bhutan, often called the “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” is celebrated for its unspoiled beauty, vibrant culture, and a deep commitment to Gross National Happiness. In recent years, the nation has added two exciting dimensions to its global appeal: the Bhutan International Marathon and its groundbreaking entry into wine production. These seemingly unrelated ventures intertwine to showcase Bhutan’s unique ability to inspire and innovate while staying rooted in its traditions.
Every year, runners from around the globe converge on Bhutan to participate in the Bhutan International Marathon. This event is no ordinary race; it’s a spiritual and cultural journey through the heart of Bhutan’s stunning landscapes. The marathon route weaves through rural villages, lush forests, and terraced rice paddies, all set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Himalayas.
For participants, the marathon is a transformative experience—a chance to not only challenge their physical endurance but also to connect with the Bhutanese way of life. Many describe the event as a meditative journey, offering moments of clarity and inspiration that linger long after the finish line.
The marathon’s power to inspire extends beyond its participants. During one such event, Michael Juergens, co-founder of the Bhutan Wine Company, found himself captivated by the country’s pristine environment and varied altitudes. As he ran through Bhutan’s rolling hills and terraced fields, an idea took root: could this untouched land, with its cool climate and rich soil, be ideal for growing wine grapes?
This serendipitous moment sparked the beginning of Bhutan’s journey into winemaking. Juergens and his team planted vineyards across Bhutan’s diverse terrain, from the tropical lowlands near the Indian border to high-altitude regions near Thimphu, creating some of the world’s highest vineyards. Today, the Bhutan Wine Company has released its inaugural wines, capturing the essence of Bhutan in every bottle.
Registration is now open for the BIM 2025.
Bhutan is where dreams take root—in the rhythm of a marathon stride and the richness of a vineyard’s soil—transforming inspiration into a timeless journey.
The first release is the first step in what could define Bhutan’s future with viticulture as the Bhutan Wine Company team bets big on the world’s newest wine region in 150 years.
“We believe that the last time a nation without wine grapes developed an entire wine industry from scratch was New Zealand in the 1800s,” explained Juergens. “So we have a lot of people rooting for this to succeed, just to see what the outcome will be.”
To read the full story on “Bhutan Becomes The World’s Newest Wine-Producing Country With Inaugural Release”—featuring a 2023 blend from the Bhutan Wine Company, the Kingdom’s first-ever wine, with a 2024 Chenin Blanc to follow—click this link.
