While a meticulously curated wine list may not be the only reason to book a First or Business Class ticket, for discerning travelers, an exceptional onboard wine program can elevate the entire journey. In today’s fiercely competitive premium cabin market, airlines are investing heavily in their wine offerings—making that perfect glass at 35,000 feet a memorable highlight of the flight. 

Over the past decade, the caliber of wine served in the skies has soared. Leading carriers now collaborate with world-renowned sommeliers and Masters of Wine, who rigorously taste and evaluate selections in simulated cabin conditions. Top-tier First Class airlines are committed to ensuring that every bottle poured at altitude delivers its full character and complexity. 

Today’s luxury travelers are more knowledgeable and selective about wine than ever, prompting airlines to source rare vintages and boutique labels that match the sophistication of their clientele.

We explore which airlines are currently pouring the most impressive wines in First Class. Bear in mind, selections can vary by route and vintage, so not every label will be available on every flight.

To your next extraordinary toast in the sky!

Singapore Airlines has long set the standard for inflight dining—and its wine program is equally acclaimed. The airline’s wine selection is handpicked by a trio of global experts, including the esteemed Oz Clarke, who meticulously taste every label under pressurized conditions to guarantee superior performance at altitude.

Depending on the route, First Class and Suites passengers are treated to a rotating selection that includes both Dom Pérignon and Krug Grande Cuvée Champagne, as well as an impressive portfolio of French (such as Château Cos d’Estournel), Italian, German, Australian (including Clonakilla Shiraz), New Zealand (notably Greywacke Sauvignon Blanc by Kevin Judd), and American wines. Portuguese ports also make frequent appearances, ensuring a global tasting experience that rivals top wine bars on the ground.

British Airways has elevated its First Class wine program by championing premium English sparkling wines, such as the acclaimed Bolney Wine Estate Blanc de Blancs, alongside its established international favorites. The airline was among the first to serve English sparkling wines onboard, reflecting the rising prestige of UK vineyards.

First Class guests can expect to enjoy Laurent-Perrier Grand Siècle Champagne and Grand Cru Chablis, complemented by a refined, though select, range of reds, whites, and ports. Notable pours include Domaine d’Ardhuy Corton Charlemagne from Burgundy and Warre’s Colheita Tawny Port, offering a distinguished experience for connoisseurs seeking both tradition and innovation in the sky.

Cathay Pacific consistently ranks among the world’s best for its thoughtfully curated First Class wine list. The airline’s offerings artfully balance iconic labels—such as Krug Grand Cuvée—with hand-selected boutique varietals. On a recent journey, we enjoyed the Akarua Pinot Noir Bannockburn Central Otago, a lush, cherry-driven New Zealand Pinot that pairs beautifully with premium meats served onboard.

Other highlights include Jean-Marc Brocard Chablis Grand Cru, which retains its vibrant citrus and mineral notes at altitude, and Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi Mormoreto from Tuscany—a sophisticated blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. Cathay Pacific’s wine program is a testament to its focus on both quality and discovery, catering to every palate in the air.

Emirates is renowned for its lavish approach to First Class service, and its wine program is no exception. Passengers are frequently offered Dom Pérignon Champagne, which has become a signature pour across its flagship A380 fleet. The airline’s onboard lounges, now fully refreshed as of 2025, provide a stylish setting to savor rare vintages and socialize at altitude.

Air France upholds its legacy of culinary excellence by presenting a First Class wine selection that is exclusively French and perpetually refreshed. The airline frequently updates its wine lists, offering a chance to discover both celebrated and emerging French estates.

The airline’s La Première and Business Class wine lists are overseen by Paolo Basso, a World’s Best Sommelier titleholder. Recent standouts have included Barsac Château Doisy-Védrines and vintage Taittinger Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs, both of which showcase the best of French viticulture at cruising altitude.

Etihad Airways delivers a sophisticated First Class wine experience with a focus on boutique producers from France, Australia, Germany, and New Zealand. The ever-evolving wine list is curated by a panel of certified sommeliers and tailored to specific routes, offering passengers the chance to sample unique bottles that are rarely found elsewhere.

Dedicated inflight beverage managers are available to assist with pairing recommendations, while First Class guests can enjoy pours such as Bollinger Champagne and Réserve de la Comtesse. This attention to personalized service and wine quality continues to set Etihad apart in the premium travel market.

Qatar Airways has redefined expectations for onboard wine, despite its home base in a country where alcohol is not readily available. The airline partners with Master of Wine James Cluer to assemble a First Class wine list that features prestigious labels like Taittinger Prestige Rosé, Petit Clos Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand, and Errázuriz Don Maximiano Founders Reserve Cabernet from Chile. Champagne aficionados will appreciate the rotation of Krug Grand Cuvée and Lanson Brut on select flights, all selected for their ability to shine at high altitude.

Qantas proudly highlights the diversity and quality of Australian wine through its First Class program. Each flight features a rotating cellar of standout Australian varietals, regions, and winemakers, reflecting the country’s global reputation for excellence. International First Class menus are paired with Champagne such as Pol Roger Sir Winston Churchill, a selection of premium reds (like Wirra Wirra RSW Shiraz), whites (including Vasse Felix Sauvignon Blanc Semillon), as well as dessert wines, port, muscat, and tokay. These selections are expertly matched to menus created by celebrated chef Neil Perry, ensuring a truly harmonious gastronomic journey.