United Airlines has quietly established itself as the leader in business class wine programs among U.S. carriers, consistently offering a higher-quality selection than competitors like Delta and American. While other airlines focus on prestige brands, United’s approach is deliberate and conservative, prioritizing recognizability and reliability in its onboard offerings. This isn’t just about preference; it’s a signal of which airlines take business class travelers seriously.
United’s Deliberate Approach to Wine
United’s current wine list features well-respected bottles like Catena Zapata Malbec and Domaine Serene Chardonnay. The selections are designed to perform well at altitude and appeal to a broad range of palates, emphasizing ripe, polished flavors rather than experimental or niche choices. The only criticism often leveled is that the wine quality sometimes exceeds the quality of the onboard food service, a common issue across all airlines.
The airline previously offered “wine flights,” which encouraged generous consumption and exceeded budget expectations. While discontinued, the program highlights United’s willingness to invest in a premium experience.
The Champagne Competition Heats Up
The real battleground among U.S. carriers is now champagne. Delta and American are escalating competition, with Delta serving Taittinger and American opting for Bollinger. While American lagged in wine selection, Bollinger Special Cuvée is arguably the best choice at altitude, offering depth and structure that holds up better to the sensory dulling effects of flight.
Laurent-Perrier remains United’s current champagne choice, a crisp and refreshing option that pairs well with lighter dishes. Taittinger, though elegant, lacks the robustness needed to stand out in the air.
Beyond U.S. Borders
U.S. carriers still lag behind global leaders like Emirates and Singapore Airlines in wine investment. Emirates offers exclusive premium wines like Yquem, while Singapore Airlines simulates in-flight conditions for tastings and features a rotating selection of high-end champagnes like Krug and Cristal. These investments signal a commitment to luxury that U.S. airlines are only beginning to approach.
The Bottom Line
Despite the gap, U.S. carriers are moving upmarket, with wine and champagne becoming key differentiators in the business class experience. The competition is pushing improvements, but the industry still has a long way to go before matching the standards set by top-tier international airlines.
