Frequent flyers know well: high altitude can dull our senses, especially when it comes to savoring fine wines and spirits.

Beer may lose its fizz, and wines often seem muted or uninspired at cruising altitude.

Leading airlines are acutely aware of this challenge. For years, they have adapted their culinary offerings to suit the unique conditions of the cabin. More recently, the focus has expanded to curated inflight beverages, with a spotlight on premium alcohol selections tailored for the skies.

Mikkeller's exclusive brews for SAS Business Class

Scandinavian Airlines has pioneered this trend by joining forces with the celebrated Copenhagen brewery Mikkeller, developing signature beers available solely in SAS Business Class. These collaborations include rigorous taste trials at 30,000 feet, ensuring each brew shines at altitude.

Just last year,

Cathay Pacific debuted the bespoke ‘Betsy Beer’

for its premium passengers. Created in partnership with Hong Kong Beer Co., Betsy Beer is engineered for optimal flavor in the sky and is available on select routes between Hong Kong and the UK, as well as in Cathay Pacific’s flagship lounges in Hong Kong and London Heathrow.

Cathay Pacific's Betsy Beer: Designed for Flight

Virgin Australia now sets a new benchmark by introducing ‘The Duo’ Shiraz—an innovative red wine blend, meticulously crafted for enjoyment above the clouds. Exclusively poured in Virgin Australia’s Business Class cabins and lounges, this wine embodies the airline’s commitment to luxury and sensory excellence.

Developed in collaboration with the esteemed St Hallett winery in the Barossa Valley, The Duo Shiraz is engineered for the inflight environment. It showcases “harmonious acidity and texture” when sipped at altitude, expertly compensating for the effects of cabin pressure and reduced humidity.

This unique blend is also tailored to complement Virgin Australia’s Business Class gastronomic offerings, overseen by renowned chef Luke Mangan, ensuring a seamless pairing experience for discerning palates.

Introducing The Duo: Virgin Australia’s Altitude-Perfected Shiraz

St Hallett winemaker Shelley Cox reveals that The Duo is thoughtfully sourced from both Barossa and Eden Valleys, regions acclaimed for world-class Shiraz including labels like Penfolds Grange and Jacob’s Creek. The Eden Valley component, grown at higher elevations, imparts delicate floral aromatics that shine even in the dry cabin air.

“Cabin conditions often mute a wine’s bouquet,” Cox explains. “The Eden Valley grapes add essential aromatics, bringing vibrancy to the blend. Even a modest portion can transform the wine’s profile.”

“We experimented extensively to perfect the balance of acidity and mouthfeel. The project was a rewarding challenge, and we’re confident that The Duo delivers a memorable sensory experience for travelers at altitude.”