Category: Wine List

Air New Zealand Debutes Premium Wine Label “Thirteen Forty Five”

Air New Zealand has recently introduced an exclusive new wine label, “Thirteen Forty Five,” available exclusively to its passengers.

Thirteen Forty Five was named in tribute to a significant milestone in the airline’s history – the inaugural flight from Auckland to Sydney in 1940, which covered 1345 miles. Operated by Air New Zealand’s predecessor, TEAL (Tasman Empire Airways Limited), this flight ushered in a new era of air travel, connecting New Zealand to the world.

The label launches with two signature varietals, sauvignon blanc and pinot noir, crafted in collaboration with renowned New Zealand wine producer Villa Maria, part of Indevin Group. These wines are now available in Air New Zealand lounges throughout New Zealand and in Premium Economy cabins on international flights.

Air New Zealand General Manager Customer Experience Kylie McGillivray-Brown says the unique blends have been carefully crafted to provide an exclusive experience for customers, whether they’re enjoying a glass in the air or while relaxing in a lounge.

About the Wines

The sauvignon blanc blends grapes from select vineyards in Marlborough’s Wairau and Awatere valleys, offering aromas of passionfruit, lemongrass, and subtle herbal notes. The pinot noir, sourced from vineyards on the eastern side of the Wairau valley, showcases flavours of cherry and plum with hints of dried herbs and violets.

Winemaker Tom Dixon of Villa Maria says: “We couldn’t have asked for better vintages to produce the debut release of these wines. The conditions during the growing seasons were very favourable for producing high quality wines that reflect their respective varieties and showcase the essence of sauvignon blanc and pinot noir from Marlborough.”

Delta’s Revamped Wine Selection Elevates the In-Flight Experience

As the holiday season approaches, Delta Air Lines has announced an enhanced, carefully curated wine program, along with seasonal meals and gourmet snacks crafted in collaboration with award-winning chefs.

Enhanced Wine Program

Delta’s wine selection is now expanding to feature a range of varietals and flavors from across the globe, developed in partnership with Master Sommelier Andrea Robinson. The airline’s commitment to diversity and sustainability in sourcing means each wine reflects the unique identity and craftsmanship of its region, appealing to both casual sippers and wine connoisseurs.

A sampling of this year’s wine program includes:

  • Domaine Bousquet Reserve Organic Malbec (Argentina): A rich, dark-berry Malbec from a woman-led winery, pairing seamlessly with beef dishes.
  • Barbanera in Bianco (Italy): A unique white Sangiovese with fruit and citrus notes, ideal for seafood and cheeses.
  • Ken Forrester Old Vine Reserve Chenin Blanc (South Africa): An aromatic Chenin Blanc that complements spicy and full-flavored dishes.
  • Hahn Chardonnay (California): An elegant, balanced, vegan-friendly Chardonnay with tropical and oak notes.
  • Albert Bichot Pouilly-Fuissé (France): A lively and aromatic wine, pairing well with buttery seafood and creamy pastas.

Each wine undergoes a meticulous selection process, highlighting the diverse communities within the wine industry. Delta’s Sky Sommelier program, aimed at training flight attendants, further enhances in-flight service by educating staff on varietals, regional attributes, and food pairings, enriching guests’ travel experience.

“Exceptional in-flight meals create memorable travel experiences, whether 35,000 feet above ground or in new destinations,” notes Kristen Manion Taylor, Delta’s SVP of Inflight Service. “Our dedication to quality, diversity, and sustainability ensures each selection aligns with our guests’ expectations of a high-standard culinary journey.”

Wine Business Monthly’s Wine Industry Leaders of 2024

Wine Business Monthly’s 2024 Wine Industry Leaders list was just announced! It serves as a valuable guide to the visionaries shaping the current and future landscape of the wine industry. Recognizing those who drive innovation, sustainability, and economic resilience, this annual compilation includes leaders who stand out in their commitment to advancing the wine sector through strategic foresight and adaptability in the face of evolving market demands. The 2024 selection reflects a cross-section of influential figures, from pioneering winemakers and business executives to sustainability advocates and digital strategists, each making significant contributions to both the trade and broader cultural appreciation of wine.

By highlighting these individuals, Wine Business Monthly not only celebrates success but also inspires continuous growth and evolution across the industry.

Here is the full list: https://www.winebusiness.com/wbm/article/293943

Source: Wine Business Monthly

Exploring Switzerland’s Most Unique Vineyard Stays

As the harvest season approaches, Switzerland’s Grape Escapes program uncorks a selection of over sixty exceptional and unique accommodations. These range from boutique châteaux to rustic vigneron cottages, and from avant-garde “birdboxes” to transparent “bubble” retreats – all offering an all-inclusive oenophile’s paradise. The common thread? Each stay is deeply rooted in viticulture and terroir.

This initiative, a collaborative effort between Swiss Wine Promotion and Switzerland Tourism, invites connoisseurs to immerse themselves in Swiss wine culture through curated experiences set against a backdrop of stunning viticultural landscapes. Each accommodation is strategically positioned either amidst the vines or offering panoramic views of the vineyards.

From historic vineyard domaines like La Capite in the Lavaux AOC of Vaud, to innovative lodgings such as the oak barrel suite at Chalet Diognysos or the transparent Bubble Hotel in the emerging Thurgau wine region, to a modernist Birdbox nestled in the steep slopes of Ticino, each destination promises not just repose, but a deep dive into the world of Swiss wines.

Here are six one-of-a-kind places to sleep among Swiss vineyards:

La Capite – Cully, Vaud: The small vineyard cottage La Capite in Cully used to serve winegrowers as a place to relax after hard work. Nowadays, during the late summer months, this charming cottage amidst the Lavaux vineyards in the Vaud region can be rented for overnight stays. There is no running water, electricity or heating – as these amenities are available in the nearby family home, which is just a few steps away. Inside La Capite, guests will find antique furniture, creaky wooden floors, and unbeatable views of Lake Geneva.

Chalet Diognysos – Crans-Montana – Valais: Spending the night in a wooden barrel might not be for everyone, but those who can handle being surrounded by thick oak planks should try an overnight stay in “Le Coup de Foudre” barrel at Chalet Diognysos – a wine barrel – at Chalet Diognysos. In winter, the barrel serves as a fondue and raclette room, while in summer it is transformed into a cozy room with a double bed and romantic lighting. It is located in the vineyards of Diogne, below Crans Montana, and offers a magnificent view of the Valais Alps, which is best enjoyed over a homemade breakfast on the panoramic terrace.

Birdbox Curzútt – Monte Carasso, Ticino: The Birdbox Curzútt is not a small birdhouse but a stylish, fully equipped accommodation that invites visitors to snooze in seclusion. The Birdbox is located above Bellinzona and is best reached by cable car. It has large windows with views of St. Barnard’s Church, the surrounding vineyards, and nature. A furnished terrace invites guests to enjoy a romantic aperitif, and a delicious dinner can be savored at the Ristorante Ostello Curzútt, just a few steps away.

Bubble Hotel – Kartause Ittingen, Thurgau: Visitors who book a night at the “Bubble Hotel” in Thurgau should hope for clear skies, as it allows for stargazing directly from the bed. Even during the day, this exclusive accommodation is a real eye-catcher. The transparent bubble tent is nestled in nature and offers views of the vineyards and the Thur River. The stay includes breakfast and an e-bike per person, inviting exploration of the picturesque wine regions and hikes through the beautiful surroundings.

Boutique Boatel Attila – Jura & Three-Lakes Region: A trip on Switzerland’s only floating hotel is the perfect way to discover the vineyards around the Three-Lakes Region. Guests can relax in one of the nine double cabins or in the Captain’s Lounge of the boutique boatel (boat-hotel) Attila as they travel along the longest navigable waterway in Switzerland, passing through Lake Biel, Lake Murten, and Lake Neuchâtel. Along the way, the former cargo ship stops for wine tastings with local wine merchant, excursions into the wine region, and dinners at select restaurants… and if you are in the mood for a refreshing swim, it’s just a step away from your bed.

Domaine Château du Crest – Jussy, Geneva: The Domaine Château du Crest, owned by the Micheli family since 1637, is located on the edge of the Geneva countryside in Jussy, surrounded by vineyards and just 15 minutes from the city centre of Geneva. The estate offers six rooms in a rural-chic style, just a few steps from the legendary Château Du Crest. Visitors are invited to explore the vineyard, participate in seasonal grape harvesting, and take walks around Lake Geneva.

For further details: https://www.swisswine.ch/en/news/grape-escapes-spectacular-sleep

Source: www.swisswine.ch/

The 10 Most Expensive Wines in the World

Few things in the world improve in quality and value with age. Aged wine is one of those things, defined by elegance, rarity and finesse. If you are drawn to the thrill of owning something truly one of a kind, this niche market will certainly appeal to you.

We’ve all heard the expression “aging like a fine wine,” so you may not be surprised to learn seven of the 10 most expensive wines in the world are from 1947 or earlier. That includes three bottles that date back to the 18th century. No need to check the “best before” date.

Rank Wine Year Country Price
1 Domaine de la Romanee-Conti Grand Cru 1945 France $558,000
2 Screaming Eagle Cabernet Sauvignon 1992 United States $500,000
3 Jeroboam of Chateau Mouton-Rothschild 1945 France $310,700
4 Cheval Blanc 1947 France $304,375
5 Château Lafite 1869 France $230,000
6 Château Margaux 1787 France $225,000
7 Ampoule from Penfolds, Block-42 Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 Australia $168,000
8 Chateau Lafite Rothschild 1787 France $156,450
9 Henri Jayer, Vosne-Romanée Cros Parantoux 1999 France $136,955
10 Massandra Sherry de la Frontera 1775 Spain $43,500

France leads the way for luxury wines
What conclusions can we draw from the list? We all already knew that they like their wine in France, so the fact they produce the most expensive wines around won’t come as a huge shock.

Seven of the top ten most expensive wines ever sold hail from France, although special mention must go to the United States’ own Screaming Eagle Cabernet Sauvignon, made in Napa Valley in 1992. Only 175 cases were produced at a time when Screaming Eagle Cabernet hadn’t yet established itself as a premium wine producer.

Source: https://sothebysrealty.ae/