This April, Global Traveler returns with the much-anticipated Wines on the Wing competition. Airlines worldwide submit their best reds, whites and sparkling wines for blind judging to determine the top airline wine selections. The exclusive 2024 Wines on the Wing after-party and reception will take place on April 9 at City Winery New York City from 6–8 p.m.
On Location, the official hospitality provider for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, helped facilitate the event’s comeback.
This year’s judging panel is led by Tom Gannon, an experienced New York City-based sommelier who brings deep industry knowledge to the evaluations.
© Christopher P. Ottaunick
The last Wines on the Wing competition was held in 2020 at Odd Logic Brewery in Pennsylvania. That year, several carriers earned top marks, including LATAM Airlines (whose Master Sommelier Héctor Vergara brings 25 years of experience), American Airlines (led by Master Sommelier Bobby Stuckey) and Icelandair.
In 2019, the event returned to City Winery New York City in its former venue and became a lively evening for wine and travel enthusiasts. Standout performers included Singapore Airlines, Etihad Airways, United Airlines—guided by Master Sommelier Doug Frost—and Air France, among others.
© Christopher P. Ottaunick
The 15th annual Wines on the Wing in 2018 gathered top airline wines at the historic Pierre Hotel on Fifth Avenue. Leading scorers that year included Delta Air Lines, British Airways and All Nippon Airways, with Delta’s Master Sommelier Andrea Robinson contributing to the airline’s success across multiple categories.
Past judging panels have included respected industry professionals such as Cesar Baeza, a Chilean wine expert with more than 20 years in the industry; John Brecher, senior editor of Grape Collective and author of multiple wine books; Beth Cotenoff, a certified wine instructor and senior vice president at R/West with over two decades in wine and spirits; John Fanning, director of private dining for the Il Gattopardo Group; and David Lecomte, chief winemaker at City Winery.
© Christopher P. Ottaunick
Looking ahead to 2024, Global Traveler anticipates the same high standards and exceptional wine selections from participating airlines. The competition promises to reveal which carriers will stand out this year.
RSVP for this year’s Wines on the Wing event through the event page.