“Winery in the Sky” – The world’s first “winery airline” takes off

The world’s first winery airline has taken flight.

New Zealand wine company Invivo welcomed passengers aboard Invivo Air on January 31.

The chartered flight departed Auckland Airport around midday and flew to Queenstown, landing two hours later.

While aboard the Invivo Air Saab 340 aircraft, guests enjoyed an eight-step wine tasting, where hanging vine decorations and an onboard wine magazine enhanced the winery-on-height effect.

“It’s business class in every glass,” says the airline.

A limited number of tickets for the experience were sold last December, priced at NZ$1,149 (€674) per person, according to Invivio Air’s website.

Also included was an overnight stay at the Hilton Queenstown, a visit to the vineyards and dinner with matching wines.

Dubbed “a winery in the sky,” the flight included tastings of famous brands, including the Graham Norton and Sarah Jessica Parker ranges, alongside other Invivo bottles.

To top off the wine flight, there was also entertainment and music in the air.

Invivo co-founders Tim Lightbourne and Rob Cameron led the wine tasting.

Ahead of the winery launch, Mr. Cameron said, “Invivo Air is the world’s premier winery and we look forward to guiding our guests through the ultimate wine lover’s experience – both at 18,000 feet in the sky at our winery and beyond terra firma in one of our beautiful vineyards in Central Otago.

“We are very excited to open Invivo Air to the public and offer a truly unique experience to all who come on board. We’ll taste some stunning drops in truly epic locations.

“Well, don’t fly wine and experience Business Class in every glass!”

Upon arrival in Queenstown, guests were taken on a tour of Legend’s Terrace in Central Otago, one of Invivo’s oldest wineries.

The winery is known for producing award-winning New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, Rosé and Pinot Noir.

An evening winemaker’s dinner followed before guests stayed at the five-star Hilton Queenstown Resort and Spa. The lakeside location also has an indoor pool, spa, and gym.

Invivo Air has yet to announce the dates of future wine flights.

– Additional reporting by Pól Ó Conghaile