Virgin Atlantic adds English sparkling wine Hambledon Classic Cuvée permanently to Upper Class

Virgin Atlantic has chosen to showcase home-grown craftsmanship by serving Hambledon Classic Cuvée permanently in Upper Class, after the English sparkling wine proved a passenger favourite.

Many UK-based travellers flying Upper Class between international business destinations will now enjoy a recognisably English sparkling wine at altitude, enhancing the premium travel experience and reinforcing Virgin Atlantic’s commitment to offering high-quality British options.

Virgin Atlantic originally introduced the Hambledon Classic Cuvée as part of a two-week promotion during English Wine Week. That trial proved so popular with Upper Class customers that the wine has remained on the menu permanently since 2019.

Virgin Atlantic argues that English sparkling wine has come of age, and is increasingly regarded as stiff competition to Champagne. Oz Clarke, world-leading wine expert, is quoted as saying, “The English wine world is a thrilling place to be now - so full of potential that I sometimes call England the newest new world wine nation.” Production has increased significantly: from around 5.3 million bottles in 2017 to over 12.2 million in 2022.

Ian Kellett at Hambledon Vineyard, where meticulous care turns English grapes into premium sparkling wine for Virgin Atlantic Upper Class.

Hambledon vineyard is located in Hampshire’s South Downs. First established as a vineyard in 1952 in the village of Hambledon, it is now on over 200 acres, with some 100,000 vines of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier – the same grape varieties used in Champagne production. from Hambledon & Virgin Atlantic

Ian Kellett, owner of Hambledon, is said

“Well, we spend an awful lot of time talking about the weather. We Brits enjoy talking about the weather, but when you run a vineyard you really talk about the weather! From April to October we pretty much ponder the weather on an hourly basis.”

He also comments on geology and terroir:

“It all comes down to geology and climate. Hambledon has the same high-grade chalk soil as the Champagne region … and a marginally cooler climate which gives fabulous acidity to make sparkling wine with.”

Shiada Drysdale, Manager – inflight services food and beverage, adds:

“Hambledon Classic Cuvée is the epitome of homegrown elegance and sophistication in a glass. … It’s no wonder they are the leading star of English sparkling wine.”

For business travellers, especially those flying Upper Class on transatlantic or long-haul routes, this development represents more than just a nicety – it reinforces the premium edge. Rather than generic Champagne, travellers can now enjoy an English sparkling wine that reflects domestic quality and craftsmanship. For UK corporates and frequent flyers, this helps tie the luxury of premium air travel back to a British identity and can be a small but meaningful enhancement to the travel experience.

Paul Baker, Sales Director at Global Travel Management, comments:

“Business travellers value consistency, quality and small touches that elevate their experience. Virgin Atlantic’s decision to include Hambledon Classic Cuvée permanently means our clients flying Upper Class can now enjoy a premium British sparkling wine at 35,000 feet – a detail that reflects elegance, supports British producers, and enriches the on-board experience in a way that matters.”

If you would like further information about Virgin Atlantic’s Upper Class offering, wine selection, or anything related to business travel, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.