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Japan Airlines Elevates In-Flight Experience with New Wine Selection

Japan Airlines (JAL) is set to enhance the in-flight experience by unveiling a refreshed selection of wines offered in its international premium economy and economy class. Starting December 1, 2025, passengers can indulge in an exclusive range of wines meticulously crafted for air travel. The wines, curated by JAL's own Wine Advisor, Motohiro Okoshi, feature four different grape varieties from Spain, ensuring a delightful flavor profile tailored for the unique conditions of flying.

This innovative wine selection marks a significant shift from traditional packaging. The conventional plastic bottles (187ml) are being replaced with lightweight, recyclable glass bottles (750ml), a first for JAL. This transition not only safeguards the wine's integrity against quality degradation over long flights but also underscores the airline's commitment to environmental sustainability. By choosing recyclable materials, JAL aims to reduce its carbon footprint and minimize plastic waste in aviation.

The onboard service experience will also see a transformation as JAL flight attendants will serve guests by pouring wine directly from the bottle into their glasses, enhancing that personal touch in the cabin.

Introducing the New Wine Range

The newly introduced wine, aptly named “+81,” after Japan's country code, symbolizes the connection between Japan and the world at 30,000 feet. Both the red and white variants have been specially crafted to complement in-flight meals, taking into account how taste perception changes at high altitudes.

White Wine: A Blend of Character

The white wine features a harmonious blend of Airen, Chardonnay, Verdejo, and Sauvignon Blanc, designed for fruit-forward flavors that passengers can enjoy even in less-than-ideal tasting conditions common at high altitudes. Its composition includes 40% Airen, 24% Verdejo, 16% Chardonnay, and 20% Sauvignon Blanc, infusing notes of fresh lemon and floral nuances for a refreshing finish. This thoughtfully balanced wine delivers a smooth mouthfeel with a crisp acidity that lingers pleasantly.

Red Wine: Bold and Flavorful

The red wine boasts a robust mix of Grenache, Merlot, and Syrah, enhanced by the addition of Muscatel, which adds depth and richness. This blend consists of 47.5% Grenache, 28.5% Merlot, 19% Syrah, and 5% Muscatel, providing aromatic layers of ripe red cherry and rose petals. It presents an elegant tannin structure combined with fresh acidity and a concentrated fruitiness, leaving a spicy note reminiscent of pink pepper on the palate.

Embracing Sustainability with Lightweight Bottles

These new lightweight bottles, weighing only about 300 grams, are engineered to provide the same durability as conventional wine bottles while significantly reducing energy consumption and CO2 emissions during transport. This effort represents JAL's proactive approach to environmental stewardship, contributing to the reduction of overall material usage and lowering the environmental impact associated with in-flight wine service.

As JAL continues to prioritize quality enhancement and sustainable practices, passengers on international routes including North America, Europe, Australia, and Southeast Asia will soon have the privilege to enjoy these exquisite wines. The service will apply to flights departing from Japan to various international destinations, with an exclusive offer set to begin on December 1, 2025.

About Motohiro Okoshi

Motohiro Okoshi is a renowned wine expert holding the International Sommelier Association's diploma and the WSET Sake Level 3 educator certification. With years of experience studying viticulture and winemaking in France, he has become a consultant and lecturer, advocating for wine pairings that transcend traditional boundaries. Notably, Okoshi is also the proprietor of modern Vietnamese restaurants that showcase a fusion of Asian cuisine paired with a global selection of wines and signature Japanese spirits. His expertise enriches the flying experience for JAL passengers in their quest for the best taste of airborne dining.

In conclusion, JAL's commitment to enhancing the in-flight experience through quality selections and sustainable practices reflects its dedication to passenger satisfaction, making every journey at high altitudes memorable.