A nice glass of wine can make a great flight even better – especially if it’s from the south of France. As of this month, you can enjoy a selection of new, premium French bottles alongside the usual list, all hand-picked by our Master of Wine, Tim Jackson. Here, Club correspondent Jessica Herbert reports on her time with the expert himself and reveals just what frequent fliers can expect...

“There are so many destinations on our route network that are known for making exceptional wine,” says Tim, but, for this summer, his expert gaze is focused on one place only: the south of France, specifically, the Rhône Valley and Provence.

And while you may know the region for its world-famous reds, it also produces quality whites and rosés that perfectly herald the warmer temperatures. If you’re intending to fly in our First or Club World cabins this summer, here’s what to look out for…

Cave de Tain, Les Hauts d’Eole Crozes-Hermitage Blanc 2021
Where is it produced? Rhône Valley, France
Where can I drink it? First
Tell me more: If you’re looking for a glass of something extra light and fresh, this one is for you. Produced from two vineyards at the foot of the hill of Hermitage, this vintage has a core of white flower, lemon and stone fruit, with hints of acidity. “Not everyone thinks of the Rhône valley as the region of white wines, but bottles like this show they deserve to be on the map,” says Tim. Try it with fish, shellfish and cheese.

Ferraton Père et Fils, Plan de Dieu Côtes du Rhône-Villages 2022
Where is it produced? Rhône Valley, France
Where can I drink it? Club World
Tell us more: Maison Ferraton is one of the biggest names in the Rhône Valley and for good reason. Its Plan de Dieu has a striking purple tone and a pepperiness that’s just as punchy. With dark fruit notes and firm, sandy tannins, this red sits on your palate long after each sip. “In the drier air at 35,000 feet, your nose can become less sensitive to aromas,” says Tim. “But this wine knows how to hold its own at altitude thanks to plenty of fruit and intensity.”

Cellier des Princes Hauts des Côteaux Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2017
Where is it produced? Rhône Valley, France
Where can I drink it? First
Tell me more: This is your quintessential Châteauneuf red and one of Tim’s desert island wines. It’s grown in a unique terroir where vines sit atop large pebbles, and has a savoury taste with mature tannins, and layers of kirsch, strawberry and oak. As for the pairings, “One of my broad guidelines is spiciness with spiciness,” says Tim. “This has enough intensity and spice to work well with hot food or curry, as well as beef, charcuterie, or even chocolate desserts.”
Where to stay? 17th-century Château de Varenne (pictured below) goes above and beyond for its wine-loving guests, who can laze by the pool and tuck into croissants and local cheeses before a day of sipping and swilling begins. Before you go, make sure to get your hands on a jar of its homegrown lavender honey.

Caves d’Esclans, Rock Angel Côtes de Provence Rosé 2021
Where is it produced? Provence, France
Where can I drink it? First
Tell me more: Of course, summer wouldn’t be complete without a rosé. “You can’t showcase the South of France without one,” says Tim. “And what better bottle than one that has sparked the ‘rosé renaissance’?” Described as Whispering Angel in a leather jacket, a third of this wine is aged in 600-litre oak barrels for six months to create a unique, light toast that adds complexity to the red berry and stone fruit profile. And the best part? You can visit the stunning Château d’Esclans for a tasting.

Véronique Pichon, Mes Belles Vignes Ventoux Blanc 2022
Where is it produced? Rhône Valley, France
Where can I drink it? Club World
Tell us more: Produced from vineyards at the foot of the mighty Mont Ventoux, this white is a blend of four grapes – the most prominent being Grenache Blanc, which adds notes of pear, and Roussanne, which gives a little peach richness. “This particular blend creates volume and fullness,” says Tim, which is important to maintain its presence in the skies. “But the fine line of citrus acidity keeps it fresh and drinkable.” Enjoy with creamy sauces, chicken or fish.

Wines mentioned will be available on board until the end of September. To collect Avios on your online wine purchases, head to The Wine Flyer

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This article has been tagged Food + Drink, BA