United Debuts Two Napa Wine Classics in Polaris Business Class
United is elevating its wine offerings on board thanks to a new partnership with luxury wine importer and producer Demeine Estates
Photo: Courtesy of Demeine Estates
United‘s Polaris customers have an opportunity to sample some of Napa’s legendary wines during their next business class flight.
Stony Hill and Heitz Cellar (Stony Hill made its debut in 1951, while Heitz followed a decade later in 1961) are wineries that have spent decades honing their craft and specializing in viticulture to create timeless expressions of the best of Napa.
Photo: Courtesy of Demeine Estates
The debut of these wines is part of United’s wine program overhaul – its largest to date – and ongoing investment in elevating its food and beverage offerings.
This is a first-of-its-kind strategic alliance partnership between United and Demeine Estates, operating a renowned wine portfolio. “This partnership meaningfully elevates the in-flight experience for our business class travelers by offering access to iconic, terroir-driven wines that reflect the craftsmanship and heritage of Napa Valley,” says Aaron McMillan, managing director of hospitality programs at United.
Photo: Courtesy of Demeine Estates
“Through our collaboration with Demeine Estates, we’re bringing consistently high-quality selections—like Heitz Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon and Stony Hill Chardonnay—onboard, allowing our passengers to enjoy world-class wines that they might otherwise only experience at top restaurants or vineyards.”
According to Philana Bouvier, president of Demeine Estates, the Heitz Cellar Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon was an ideal fit for this inaugural partnership because it showcases the post-Prohibition classical winemaking style that defines Heitz Cellar, and the Stony Hill Napa Valley Chardonnay is special because it is only made in certain years. And, adds Bouvier, they are ideal for in-flight because “both wineries showcase balanced acidity and moderate alcohol, which are characteristics of wine that show well at altitude.”
Photo: Courtesy of United Airlines
Both wines will be offered during United’s inaugural promotional period, then look for Stony Hill Napa Valley Chardonnay during summer flights. Says McMillan, “The Demeine Estates collaboration is the first of several exciting wine partnerships on the horizon and a part of our ongoing efforts to create an elevated food and beverage program centered around regional authenticity, high-integrity ingredients, and thoughtful, terroir-driven pairings.”
A Taste of What’s On Board
Heitz Cellar Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon: Founded in 1961, Heitz Cellar is one of Napa County’s iconic wineries with a heritage that shines through in their wines. Polished and full of black cherry fruit, this full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon is a true expression of the breadth of Napa Valley terroir. This wine was ranked #3 on Wine Spectator’s 2021 Top 100 list.
Stony Hill Chardonnay: Stony Hill dates back to 1951 and is considered by many to be “America’s greatest white wine estate.” Vineyards are farmed organically, and the cooler microclimate lends their silky Chardonnay a refreshing mineral edge. This wine was named one of the Top 10 American Wines of 2024 by Decanter.
