Singapore Airlines (SIA) has long been synonymous with exquisite inflight luxury, particularly in its Suites and First Class cabins. A key aspect of this premium experience is the meticulous selection of champagne, curated to cater to discerning passengers. As of February 2025, SIA will be streamlining its champagne offering, shifting from three options per route to two premium labels, featuring Pol Roger Blanc de Blancs 2016 alongside either Louis Roederer Cristal 2015 or Krug Grande Cuvée, depending on the route.
This decision aligns with SIA’s broader premium beverage strategy, which has evolved considerably since the removal of Dom Pérignon in November 2022. In response, SIA introduced a rotating third champagne label in June 2023, featuring exceptional vintages such as Bollinger La Grande Année 2015, Henri Giraud MV19 Aÿ Grand Cru, and Charles Heidsieck Blanc des Millénaires 2007. Most notably, in December 2024, SIA secured an exclusive partnership with Louis Roederer, making it the only airline in the world to serve Cristal 2015 in First Class.
The New Champagne Line-Up
Passengers on selected routes will experience an elevated champagne selection:
Flights serving Cristal 2015:
- Delhi, Hong Kong, London, Los Angeles, Paris, Shanghai, Sydney, and Tokyo will feature:
- 2015 Louis Roederer Cristal Millesime Brut
- 2016 Pol Roger Blanc de Blancs Brut
Flights serving Krug Grand Cuvée:
- Auckland, Beijing, Frankfurt, Jakarta, Melbourne, Mumbai, New York JFK, and Zurich will serve:
- Krug Grande Cuvée
- 2016 Pol Roger Blanc de Blancs Brut
A Calculated Shift in Luxury Champagne Offerings
The transition to a two-champagne offering per route has been met with mixed reactions, but it underscores SIA’s commitment to strategic curation over sheer variety. While some premium travellers may miss the rotating third label, SIA’s move ensures a consistent, ultra-premium selection.
This strategy aligns with broader trends in the luxury aviation sector. For example, Emirates previously held exclusivity over Dom Pérignon, while Japan Airlines has poured Cristal 2009 in the past. However, Singapore Airlines now sets itself apart by offering an unrivalled champagne experience, making it the only airline globally to serve Cristal 2015 inflight.
Maintaining Excellence in First Class Hospitality
Beyond its onboard experience, Singapore Airlines continues to elevate its ground offerings. In The Private Room at Changi Airport, SIA’s most exclusive lounge, guests can enjoy an expanded selection of vintage champagnes, including:
- Taittinger Comtes de Champagne 2012
- Geoffroy Empreinte Millésime Extra Brut 2016
This emphasis on premium, vintage champagnes in the lounge reinforces SIA’s commitment to offering exceptional luxury before takeoff.
A Look to the Future: Will a Third Champagne Return?
While SIA has reduced its champagne selection to two labels per route, the airline has indicated that it remains open to reinstating a third option in the future, depending on supply and strategic considerations. The success of Cristal 2015’s exclusive debut could influence future partnerships and rotations within SIA’s champagne program.
A Toast to the Future of Inflight Luxury
This refined champagne strategy marks a new era for Singapore Airlines’ premium experience, ensuring consistency, exclusivity, and quality. While the number of labels may have decreased, the prestige and refinement have undoubtedly increased, positioning Singapore Airlines as a leader in luxury aviation.
For travellers in Suites and First Class, the 2025 champagne lineup is a testament to SIA’s unwavering commitment to luxury, solidifying its position as a carrier that truly understands the art of inflight indulgence. Cheers to that!
