Wine on a Plane

Ever notice that wine sipped on a plane doesn’t taste quite the same? There are reasons for this. Because of the altitude, lower air pressure and lack of humidity, taste buds and sense of smell are drastically affected. Our sinuses dry out and the odour receptors do not function properly. As wine appreciation is approximately 85% smell, this is vital. Liquids tend to expand and contract as pressure changes, so taste-wise, the mid palate deciphers less fruity notes. Our perception of sweetness and saltiness decreases. The solution, if there is one, is to sip wine that has more vibrant flavours and perhaps spiciness. You might also try sipping wine earlier in the flight rather than later when your sinuses have dried out substantially more.