Dubai-based carrier Emirates said that it has introduced a range of exceptional wines on-board its global flights this month. It added that its previous year’s investment into wine and champagne crossed Dhs186 million.
Emirates says that it has the most extensive wine cellar of any airline with dedicated facilities in France which currently house around 6 million bottles of fine wine, some of which won’t be served until 2037.
At present, Emirates offers 36 different varieties of French wines and Champagnes on-board its aircraft.
Over the coming months it will introduce a selection of the white Burgundy wines, including Premier and Grand Crus wines such as Montrachet 2011, Chevalier-Montrachet 2013, and Corton-Charlemagne 2014, as well as red Burgundy wines, primarily Grand Crus like Échezeaux, Clos Vougeot, and Chambertin.
Emirates is also planning to introduce several First Growths from Bordeaux in the coming years, from the estates of Château Mouton Rothschild, Château Margaux, Château Haut-Brion, Château Cheval Blanc, and Château d’Yquem.
First Growth refers to the topmost level of the Bordeaux Classification of 1855, where châteaux were graded on their quality, price and reputation.
Many of the selected wines have been served only after being aged in its cellars, some dating back to the 2003 vintage. Bordeaux wines designated for business class undergo a minimum ageing period of 8-10 years, while those for first class receive a minimum of 12-15 years of ageing, all of which occur in facilities in France.
Each of Emirates’ four cabins features a distinct wine selection, which is updated every two weeks.
In economy, Emirates offers 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 Gabb family and an Antinori Santa Cristina red wine.
Emirates introduces vintage sparkling wine in premium economy
In premium economy, Emirates serves sparkling vintage wine, premium red, and premium white wine. Examples include 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, Emirates tailors its wine selections into six regions: the UK and USA, Europe, Africa, Middle East, Australasia, and Asia. It says that this approach allows it to offer wines aligned with the taste preferences of passengers from specific regions, and allows travellers to sample wines from the regions they will be visiting. Emirates also offers premium Port wines, including vintage Tawny Ports such as the 1979 Graham’s and the 1981 from Dow’s.
Since 2006, the airline has invested more than US$1 billion into its wine programme.
(Image: Supplied by Emirates)
