KLM Holds First Wine-tasting Event at a 10-km Altitude

A unique wine-tasting event, led by viticulturist Thérèse Boer, took place recently on board flight KL605 from Amsterdam to San Francisco.

World Business Class passengers, journalists and KLM’s wine panel tasted six wines (three white and three red) during a “blind” test.

On conclusion, Thérèse Boer revealed which wines had been tasted. The two wines that topped the list — The Holy Snail Sauvignon Blanc 2014 (France) and Casa Silva Cool Coast Pinot Noir 2013 (Chile) — will be served in World Business Class in autumn.

This marks the first time in KLM’s history that a wine-tasting event was held on board an intercontinental flight.

Meals and wines by Jonnie and Thérèse Boer

Jonnie and Therese Boer.

Until October 26, KLM will be serving meals created by leading, three-star Dutch chef Jonnie Boer in World Business Class, on flights departing from Amsterdam.

KLM not only serves meals, since as of this month, the airline has been giving away the “Kiss of Thérèse”, a Ken Forrester (Old Vine Reserve Chenin Blanc 2014) white wine selected specially by Thérèse.

The airline has been serving World Business Class meals created by leading Dutch chefs for several years now. Past menus have been created by Sergio Herman, Richard Ekkebus, Mario Ridder and Richard van Oostenbrugge.

On commencement of the new 2015 winter schedule, new Economy Class meal trays will be introduced: Tasty Blue. KLM will be the first airline in the world to introduce trays made of polypropylene. Not only is this material lighter and easier to recycle, it also has less of an impact on the environment.

New lightweight trolleys will also be introduced when the new winter season starts. These trolleys harmonise with the Delft Blue design of the trays.