Emirates Shares Insights into Inflight Wine Selection and Consumption

Dark/Light Mode (11/12/23)  As part of a continuous investment into the inflight experience, Emirates boasts one of the most extensive wine cellars of any airline, with dedicated facilities in France currently housing around 6 million bottles of fine wine, some of which won’t be served until 2037.

The airline is introducing a new array of wines onboard flights this month, as the previous year’s investment into wine and Champagne tops AED 186 million.

In the coming months Emirates will introduce a selection of select white Burgundy wines, including prestigious Premier and Grand Crus wines such as Montrachet 2011, Chevalier-Montrachet 2013 and Corton-Charlemagne 2014, as well as some special red Burgundy wines, primarily Grand Crus like Échezeaux, Clos Vougeot and Chambertin.

The airline is also planning to introduce several First Growths from Bordeaux in the coming years, from the renowned estates of Château Mouton Rothschild, Château Margaux, Château Haut-Brion, Château Cheval Blanc and Château d'Yquem.

Emirates shares insights into inflight wine selection and consumption

First Growth refers to the topmost level of the Bordeaux Classification of 1855, where châteaux were graded on their quality, price and reputation, as requested by Emperor Napoleon III.

Currently, Emirates offers 36 different varieties of French wines and Champagnes onboard its aircraft.

The carrier's stringent criteria for wine selection includes a highly detailed process, choosing wines that are known to excel both on the ground and at altitude. Key factors considered include fruit content, acidity, tannin levels, and the influence of oak.

Equally crucial is the wine's maturity, which directly impacts tannin levels. Many of the selected wines are crafted to be enjoyed after significant ageing and Emirates' cellar includes wines that date back to the 2003 vintage.

Bordeaux wines designated for Business Class undergo a minimum ageing period of 8-10 years, while those in First Class receive a minimum of 12-15 years of ageing.

Each of Emirates' four cabins feature a distinct wine selection, which is updated every two weeks.

In Economy Class, passengers are offered one red and one white wine. Recent additions include ‘AOP’ and ‘Biodynamic’ wines from M. Chapoutier, Domaines Baron de Rothschild, a South African Sauvignon Blanc from sustainability champion, Gabb family and Antinori Santa Cristina red wine.

In Premium Economy, the airline serves sparkling vintage wine, premium red and white wines, including Château La Garde 2011, Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc and Domaine Chandon 2016 – a sparkling wine that is exclusive in the sky to Emirates Premium Economy.

In Business and First Class, the wine selection is tailored into six regions: the UK and USA, Europe, Africa, Middle East, Australasia and Asia. This approach allows Emirates to offer wines closely aligned with the taste preferences of passengers from those regions, and allows travellers to sample wines from the regions they will be visiting.

Emirates also offers some delicious premium Port wines, including vintage Tawny Ports such as the 1979 Graham’s and the 1981 from Dow's.

The airline has invested more than USD 1 billion in its wine programme since 2006.

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