Attention passengers: Air New Zealand is now pouring its own vino with the debut of Thirteen Forty Five, featuring two signature drops in collaboration with renowned wine producer Villa Maria and available exclusively to customers and Airpoints shoppers.
Air New Zealand’s new wine label is named for the 1,345-mile inaugural flight from Auckland to Sydney in 1940 and celebrates the airline’s 85-year legacy with two varietals: sauvignon blanc and pinot noir, crafted by Villa Maria (part of Indevin Group).
For wine fanciers, the sauvignon blanc blends grapes from select vineyards in Marlborough’s Wairau and Awatere valleys, offering aromas of passionfruit, lemongrass, and subtle herbal notes.
Meanwhile, the pinot noir, sourced from vineyards on Wairau’s eastern side, showcases flavours of cherry and plum with hints of dried herbs and violets.
These wines are now available only in Air New Zealand lounges in New Zealand, International Premium Economy cabins, or via the Airpoints Store.
In March 2025, passengers can also sample a cheeky Thirteen Forty Five drop during Koru Hour on select domestic flights.
Air New Zealand General Manager Customer Experience Kylie McGillivray-Brown said the unique blends have been carefully crafted to provide an exclusive experience for customers, whether they’re enjoying a glass in the air or relaxing in a lounge.
“Making a great wine takes time and Thirteen Forty Five has been a passion project that honours our legacy while creating something special for our customers,” she said.
“We’re thrilled to finally share it – particularly in the year in which we’re celebrating our 85th birthday.”
More Thirteen Forty Five coming in 2025
Looking ahead, Air New Zealand will embark on the next iteration of the range in 2025, which includes the new vintage of Marlborough sauvignon blanc and a new red varietal from Hawke’s Bay.
“New Zealand boasts some of the world’s finest wines and we are proud to bring these exceptional selections to our customers and to the world,” McGillivray-Brown said.
In addition to Thirteen Forty Five, Air New Zealand continues to showcase a diverse range of local wines with 47 NZ wineries featured in 2025.
For more info, head to airnewzealand.com
