Emirates is set to unveil a fresh selection of exceptional wines on its global flights this month, following a substantial investment of over AED 186 million in wine and champagne last year. As part of their ongoing commitment to enhancing the onboard experience, Emirates takes pride in hosting the most extensive wine cellar among airlines. This dedicated facility in France currently shelters approximately 6 million bottles of exquisite wine, with some reserved for service as late as 2037.
In the upcoming months, Emirates will introduce a range of top-tier white Burgundy wines, featuring distinguished Premier and Grand Crus selections like Montrachet 2011, Chevalier-Montrachet 2013, and Corton-Charlemagne 2014. Additionally, passengers can savor exceptional red Burgundy wines, predominantly Grand Crus such as Échezeaux, Clos Vougeot, and Chambertin.
Emirates has ambitious plans to introduce several First Growths from Bordeaux in the coming years, sourced from renowned estates like Château Mouton Rothschild, Château Margaux, Château Haut-Brion, Château Cheval Blanc, and Château d'Yquem. The term "First Growth" denotes the highest level in the Bordeaux Classification of 1855, established under the request of Emperor Napoleon III, grading châteaux based on quality, price, and reputation.
Currently offering 36 different varieties of French wines and Champagnes onboard, Emirates adheres to stringent criteria for wine selection. This includes a meticulous process considering factors such as fruit content, acidity, tannin levels, oak influence, and the wine's maturity. The airline's commitment to delivering peak enjoyment involves aging Bordeaux wines for Business Class (8-10 years) and First Class (12-15 years) in professional facilities in France.
Emirates ensures a world-class wine selection for each of its four cabin classes, with updates every two weeks to maintain variety. Economy Class passengers can indulge in high-quality red and white wines, including recent additions like 'AOP' and 'Biodynamic' wines from M. Chapoutier and sustainability champion, Gabb family. In Premium Economy, Emirates serves exclusive sparkling vintage wine, premium red, and premium white wine.
Business and First Class passengers benefit from a tailored wine selection categorized into six regions, aligning with the taste preferences of passengers from the UK and USA, Europe, Africa, Middle East, Australasia, and Asia. Emirates also offers premium Port wines, including vintage Tawny Ports like the 1979 Graham’s and the 1981 from Dow's.
Emirates' commitment to its wine program is evident through an investment exceeding USD 1 billion since 2006. In 2022, the airline allocated an additional USD 2 billion to enhance the inflight customer experience, incorporating initiatives such as retrofitting over 120 aircraft with the latest interiors, introducing fine dining menus, crafted vegan dishes, a Movie Snacks menu, unlimited caviar in First Class, and a specialized hospitality training program for cabin crew. These efforts aim to create memorable moments for customers and uphold the airline's "Fly Better" promise.
