India’s First Master of Wine, Sonal C Holland, Releases A Compelling Memoir One in a Billion with Westland Books

~ A remarkable journey of self-belief, ambition, and breaking barriers—told through the lens of India’s most influential wine voice ~

18th June 2025, National: One in a Billion, a highly inspiring memoir by Sonal C Holland, India’s first and only Master of Wine, is set to release on June 24 under Westland Business, an imprint of Westland Books. A compelling story of personal transformation, the memoir chronicles her journey from a traditional corporate life to becoming a pioneering force in India’s alco-bev industry.

Holland left her corporate job to become India’s first Master of Wine, a title held by fewer than 450 people worldwide. One in a Billion captures the grit and grace behind this quest, as she balanced motherhood, gruelling study sessions, and years of travel in pursuit of the title she once thought was unattainable.

The book is a perfect juxtaposition of a memoir and a masterclass and takes the reader through her incredible journey of her quest to earn the title. Holland also offers glimpses into wine tasting, the technicalities of winemaking, and the evolution of India’s wine culture. She writes with candour and warmth, giving in life lessons that she learnt along the way.

An award-winning broadcaster, Sonal C Holland has spent over 20 years democratizing wine in India. She has also launched ‘Sonal Holland Academy’, through which she has trained thousands in wine, spirits, and beer education. She is also the founder of the ‘India Wines And Spirits Award’ and holds global certifications in spirits, saké, and beer—cementing her reputation as a leading voice in today’s evolving alco bev industry. With over a million followers on Instagram, she is among the most followed wine and beverage professionals on social media

With One in a Billion, Holland shares a powerful message of resilience, purpose, and daring to dream beyond the obvious. The book is an extraordinary journey of self-investment, bold ambition without a blueprint, success without shortcuts, and the wild magic of believing you were born for more. It is a must-read for anyone navigating career pivots, chasing ambitious goals, or simply looking to raise a toast to possibility.

Speaking on the occasion, Sonal C Holland said,” This book is for anyone at a crossroads in life, questioning if it’s too late to start over. It’s a reminder to carve your own path instead of waiting for others to lead and to realise that success isn’t where you stop, it’s where you rise higher. I hope it uncorks a fierce self-belief within the readers; the kind that reminds you that you were always made for more.”

Aurodeep Mukherjee, Commissioning Editor, Westland Books added,” Most of us know very little about the world of wine, yet Sonal’s story is striking from its premise alone: she is the first person in India to have earned the title of Master of Wine, which makes her the most qualified wine professional in the country. Her story is unique and is an inspiration to those who feel their job is a dead end and dreams of things that are bigger and better.”

One in a Billion, the trailblazing memoir of India’s only Master of Wine, Sonal C Holland is now available on pre-order on Amazon.