From Daijiworld's special correspondent in Panaji

Panaji, May 13: Goa Governor S C Jamir who sipped a cup of tea after inaugurating Goa's annual wine festival felt that such festivals are needed to attract more tourists in the state.

"I don't drink wine...," Jamir said sipping a tea from the cup along with Goa tourism development corporation (GTDC) chairman Fatima D'Sa. "I admire wine but can't drink due to health reasons," Jamir added with a broad smile.

Grape Escapade, an unique wine festival organised by GTDC took off amidst fanfare at INOX courtyard in Panaji. This venue which is famous for international film festival of india (IFFI) saw scores of people dropping in to taste wine.

"Such kind of festivals are needed to boost tourism. We should provide visitors what they get in their country," Govenor said.

The GTDC's festival showcases different kind of wines from across the country including Bangalore and Chennai.

"Wine is synonymous with friendship, happiness and celebrations. We intend to make the festival an annual event," commented GTDC'S chairperson Fatima D'Sa adding, "We are giving tourists another reason to visit Goa".

Wine industry giants including Bangalore's Grover Vineyards, Nashik's Chateau Indage, Blue Star Agro and winery and Renaissance Wineries Private Ltd and Goa's Pedro Vincent Vaz and Springfield Distilleries are participating in the festival.