Air New Zealand will launch its own wine label in collaboration with Villa Maria to commemorate its first trans-Tasman flight.
The new Thirteen Forty Five label, named after the 1,345-mile distance of the inaugural 1940 Auckland-Sydney flight, will feature a sauvignon blanc and pinot noir.
The wines have been crafted with Marlborough winemakers to suit high-altitude consumption.
Air New Zealand General Manager Customer Experience Kylie McGillivray-Brown said the wines were specially blended for the airline.
“This wasn’t about simply putting our label on a bottle – we’ve collaborated with Indevin’s world-class winemakers to craft these unique blends, creating an exclusive experience for our customers,” McGillivray-Brown said.
The wines will be available from March in Premium Economy, Air New Zealand lounges and the Airpoints Store.
The airline will also offer the wines during Koru Hour on selected domestic flights for a limited period.
The label pays tribute to TEAL (Tasman Empire Airways Limited), Air New Zealand’s predecessor which operated the first trans-Tasman service.
The carrier currently features New Zealand wines in its Business Premier cabin through an annual selection process.
“From Waiheke Island to Central Otago, it’s a privilege to showcase the very best of New Zealand winemaking and share it with the world,” McGillivray-Brown said.
