The Unique Experience of Enjoying Wine at 35,000 Feet
Imagine savouring the exceptional wines of Bec Hardy Wines and Pertaringa Wines not only at home or at their stunning Cellar Door in McLaren Vale, South Australia, but also while flying across the globe. In 2025, these acclaimed wines will be featured on three leading international airlines - Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, and Qantas, - bringing the essence of South Australian winemaking to the skies.
This exciting development marks a proud moment for Bec Hardy Wines, showcasing their meticulously crafted selections to a global audience in one of the most unique environments imaginable.
Wines That Travel Well
Each airline offers a curated experience for wine lovers:
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On Cathay Pacific, passengers can enjoy the Pertaringa Lakeside Chardonnay - a crisp, refreshing white that perfectly complements an in-flight menu.
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Singapore Airlines will feature the Pertaringa Undercover Shiraz, known for its richness and depth, ideal for enhancing your travel experience.
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Travellers with Qantas will be treated to a special release: the Lot94BSR Cabernet Sauvignon from Bec Hardy Wines. Bold, elegant, and expressive, it’s a fitting addition to Qantas’s premium wine list.
It’s a remarkable opportunity to enjoy premium South Australian wines while journeying across continents. Whether you’re a connoisseur or simply seeking to elevate your travel, these wines promise a memorable experience.
How Wine Tastes Different in the Sky
The enjoyment of wine at altitude is influenced by a number of unique factors that change how we perceive flavour and aroma. Here’s what makes the in-flight wine experience distinct.
Cabin Pressure and Altitude
At cruising altitude, cabin pressure is equivalent to being at around 6,000 to 8,000 feet above sea level. While this doesn’t make alcohol stronger, the lower oxygen levels can affect how we feel after a glass or two, often amplifying the effects of alcohol.
Dry Air
Airplane cabins have significantly lower humidity than we experience on the ground—often below 20 percent. This dry environment contributes to quicker dehydration and a dulled sense of smell and taste, both of which are essential to fully enjoying wine.
Muted Taste Perception
Studies show that our perception of sweetness and saltiness drops by up to 30 percent in the air. This means that wines can taste less fruity or more tannic at altitude. A bright Sauvignon Blanc, for example, might lose some of its tropical character, while a young, tannic red may feel more astringent than usual.
Selecting Wines That Shine in the Sky
Choosing the right wine for in-flight enjoyment can enhance the experience significantly. Here are a few tips for selecting wines that hold up well at high altitudes:
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Choose fruity and full-bodied wines: Wines with rich, bold flavours and higher alcohol content tend to perform better in flight. A ripe Chardonnay or plush Merlot, for instance, can still express their character despite the altered conditions.
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Avoid young, tannic reds: Wines with high tannin content may taste harsher in the dry air. Aged reds with softer tannins are generally more enjoyable onboard.
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Consider sparkling wines: The effervescence of sparkling wine adds a refreshing element and can help counteract the dulling effects of cabin air. Opt for those with a slightly higher dosage to balance muted taste perception.
Maximising Your In-Flight Wine Experience
To truly enjoy wine in the air, consider a few simple strategies:
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Stay hydrated: Drinking water alongside your wine can help reduce dehydration and maintain clarity of taste.
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Drink in moderation: Because the effects of alcohol can feel more pronounced at altitude, it’s best to pace yourself.
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Pair wine with food: A well-matched meal can enhance the flavours of the wine, and many airlines now design menus specifically to complement their wine offerings.
Understanding the effects of altitude can help travellers make more informed choices and turn in-flight wine into a highlight of the journey.
Bring Business Class Home - A Special Offer
To celebrate their presence in the skies, Bec Hardy Wines is offering a limited-edition Business Class Mixed 6 Pack. For just $147 (RRP $184), wine lovers can enjoy the same wines served on board these major airlines, delivered directly to their door. Order two 6-packs and receive complimentary delivery.
The pack includes:
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2 x Lakeside Chardonnay 2024
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2 x Undercover Shiraz 2022
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2 x Lot94 BSR Cabernet Sauvignon 2023
Get yours here and enjoy a first-class wine experience at home.
As these wines take flight, they carry with them the story of South Australian craftsmanship and a passion for quality. Whether you're cruising at 35,000 feet or relaxing in your living room, Bec Hardy and Pertaringa wines continue to offer an exceptional taste of place—refined, accessible, and unforgettable.