A commitment to quality and attention to detail that provides an unparalleled experience for passengers. That’s the focus of the beverage program of Qatar Airways, according to Xia Cai, senior vice president, Product Design and Development. “With a keen eye on global trends and the unique preferences of our customers, we ensure that our complimentary beverage selection is nothing short of exceptional.”

© Graham’s

This philosophy aligns with the airline’s overall excellence and continued high marks: In 2024 AirlineRatings.com, the only global safety and product rating website, awarded Qatar Airways Airline of the Year, in part due to its excellent reviews of the onboard experience. Qatar Airways selects wines to complement onboard menus and updates them seasonally. The list rotates every two weeks, ensuring frequent travelers can order different selections several times per month.

“Our diverse range of vintages is chosen to showcase the distinct qualities and flavors of their respective harvest years, promising a sensory journey as memorable as the destinations we serve,” said Cai. Qatar curates a selection of wines around the world, including two Champagnes in premium cabins. Champagne Armand de Brignac Brut Gold, better known as Ace of Spades, offers a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier with notes of orange blossom, peach and honey; Bollinger La Grande Année Brut Rosé 2007 France, vinified entirely in oak, presents aromas and flavors of rose petals, strawberries and raspberries.

© Glenmorangie

Still wines may hail from renowned producers like Corton Vergennes in Burgundy, Château d’Esclans in Provence, Australia’s Penfolds and Vega Sicilia in Rioja. Guests who crave fortified options can sip post-dinner glasses of Vin de Constance, a dessert wine from South Africa, or 40-year-old Tawny Port from the Douro Valley. As Cai put it, a trip on Qatar Airways, “isn’t just a flight, it’s a cultural immersion, a celebration of the senses … and a harmonious blend of the familiar and the extraordinary.”

Signature onboard pairings include icy cold Grey Goose Vodka with the delicate, salty flavor of caviar; bold blue cheese served with the rich butterscotch and nutty notes of Graham’s 20-Year-Old Port; and Angus beef alongside a highly structured red Bordeaux from Paulliac.

© Tanqueray

“These pairings are a testament to the meticulous care and expertise that go into curating a memorable gastronomic adventure.”

Spirits aficionados have options like Glenmorangie 19-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Tanqueray No TEN Gin and Bacardi Carta Blanca White Rum — served neat, on the rocks or in libations like a Cuba libre, Old Fashioned or dry martini.

Travelers don’t need to wait for boarding, as Qatar’s global lounges also pour excellent drinks. At Al Mourjan Business Lounge in Doha, for example, look for Champagne Lanson Le Black Label Brut, Markus Molitor Haus Klosterberg Riesling from Germany and Casa Silva Shiraz Gran Terroir de la Costa Lolol from Chile, plus a selection of beers, spirits and cocktails.

With excellence in every aspect, Qatar Airways delights the sophisticated palates of global passengers, on the ground and in the sky. “Embarking on a journey with us means indulging in a symphony of flavors that elevate your travel experience,” said Cai. “Our lounges become gateways to a world where tradition meets innovation, and every sip tells a story.”