Grapes of serendipity

On a random trip to explore the world of wine in Korat - with the film "Sideways" on our minds - we came across a charming little grape farm snugly resting between mountains.

After sampling several wines at vineyards in the area but finding them tasting more like vinegar, we decided to check out some grape farms for a change. At least grape juice couldn't taste worse than vinegar.

Pulling over at Prapatsorn Grape Farm, we were struck by the beautiful, vineladen landscape with green mountains and a massive statue of Wat Theppitak's Luang Po Khao as backdrop. Peaceful and serene, the lovely farm welcomes visitors with its verdant and idyllic vistas.

For seven years the 50-rai farm has cultivated enough seedless grapes to produce raisins and grape juice to sell. It's covered with pale green vines and opallike berries.

The fertile, dry soil supports the vines and the chemicalfree, jadecoloured underground water nurtures their fruit year round. The farm also grows some shiraz for its red and rosé wines.

Lying on the grassy lawn beneath the prolific grapevines, we sipped grape juice and a little wine. The owners don't mind at all if you want to chill out and have a little picnic.

Prapatsorn claims to be among the handful of Thai farms producing 100percent natural grape juice, with no sugar or preservatives added.

You can buy 250ml bottles for Bt40 and 750ml for Bt140. Red, white and rose wines cost Bt350. The rose is recommended - it's low on alcohol, sweet and has a pleasant strawberry aftertaste.

The best time to visit is between August and February, when the grapes are fullgrown.

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Come get juiced

Prapatsorn Grape Farm is open daily from 8 to 6 at 92 Moo 9, Mitrapab Road, Pak Chong in Nakhon Ratchasima. Call (044) 322 311.