Sometimes the best remedy for a long, stressful flight is a glass of wine. Qantas now offers in-flight wine tastings through its Sommelier in the Sky program, available to passengers in all classes. The program gives travelers the chance to taste curated wines during long-haul journeys, provided they ask the cabin crew.
Described by some as a “little secret,” the tastings are not limited to premium cabins. Whether you’re traveling in first class or economy, simply inquire with a flight attendant to learn about current offerings and request a tasting.
To expand this service, Qantas recruited more than four dozen new sommeliers and significantly boosted wine training among cabin crew. Flight attendants receive thorough instruction on the airline’s wine list and are prepared to make tailored recommendations based on passengers’ preferences.
Becoming a Sommelier in the Sky requires three days of formal training followed by a comprehensive assessment. The exam mirrors industry standards and includes a blind tasting component alongside an 80-question written test, similar to what restaurant sommeliers encounter. The training initiative has produced strong results: roughly 200 cabin crew members have passed the full Sommelier in the Sky certification, while around 2,000 crew have completed some level of wine training.
Thanks to this program, Qantas can offer a higher level of in-flight wine service, with knowledgeable staff able to present and describe quality selections to passengers across cabin classes. For travelers who enjoy wine, this adds an extra touch to the in-flight experience and can turn a long journey into a more enjoyable occasion.
