solairus aviation blog

It may be second nature to take a private jet wine tour to Sonoma or Napa Valley to sip on the harvested fruits of the gods. What you may not know is that there are hidden gems around the world that that produce vinos as fine as those found in Bordeaux. Get your jet ready for your global wine tasting tour!

England’s South East Vineyards

The next time that you find yourself in the “Land of Angels,” make your way over to Surrey, Kent and West Sussex to tour the local wine region. One of the best times of year to visit is during the English Wine Week at the end of May or the beginning of June—when the spring rains have begun to subside and the weather is ideal for outdoor tours. Or call during any time of the year to schedule your own private tasting! Add the Denbies Wine Estate to your list of must-visit vineyards. In addition to featuring art exhibits, award-winning vintages and gourmet restaurants, Denbies is also the country’s largest vineyard.

North Georgia, USA

The northern end of the Peach State is starting to prove itself as prime wine country. Areas like Helen have soil, terrain and elevation that mimic those of the Piedmont region in Italy. One of the most notable vineyards is Habersham Winery in Helen, right off the Appalachian Trail. It’s one of the state’s oldest and largest wineries, and has won over 150 medals in national and international competitions. For a special private jet wine tour and wine-tasting weekend, make your way to Dahlonega where there is no shortage of vineyards offering tours and the best Southern comforts.

Ukraine

As political trouble brewed, wine makers kept pressing. Winemaking began as early as the year 4 BC along the southern coast of the Crimea and monks began the tradition in the northern part of the country during the 11^th century. The Ukraine is also home to prince Lev Golitsyn, the founder of the sparkling wine Sovetskoye Shampanskoye (“Soviet Champagne”). To experience the best of the Ukraine, embark on a cruise along the Black Sea that takes guests on tours of the Massandra Winery, which is the former palace of Tsars and the oldest winery in the country.

Thailand

Add to your collection of new latitude wines a bottle from Thailand. As one of the latest trends to emerge in the Thai hospitality industry, luxe private tours of the northeast part of the country as well as Khao Yai, Samut Sakhon, Bangkok and Chiang Rai are starting to replace shopping tours. For one of the most unique experiences in the world, visit the Hua Hin Hills Vineyard for a tour and lesson in viticulture on the back of an elephant.          

Israel

Once known for its candy-sweet vintages because of the country’s warm weather, the wines now produced in the historic land are receiving prizes and accolades from international connoisseurs and industry publications. The country’s wine regions include Galilee, Samson region, Judean Hills, Shomron region and the Negev desert region. The Golan Heights of Galilee and Negev, however, are some of the most popular among those seeking an internationally renown boutique vineyard experience and a taste of Israeli Merlot.

While wines from classic regions are always a excellent choice, adding a bottle from an unlikely country or region to your wine cellar will give you and your friends something to talk about all night. What unique vintages have you enjoyed?

About Solairus Aviation:

Solairus is a full-service aviation asset management company that provides clients with expertise in acquiring and operating a wide range of private aircraft.

Solairus Aviation is headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area and has over twenty-five base locations across the United States and Europe. Solairus is an Aviation Research Group/US Platinum-rated charter operator with a fleet of over 50 managed aircraft. After completion of an intense operations and safety systems audit, the ARG/US Platinum rating has only been awarded to 5% of the world’s charter operators that have demonstrated that their procedures meet or exceed industry “Best Practices” in all phases. Solairus has also received the NBAA Commercial Business Flying Safety Award and is an IS-BAO certified company. Solairus offers a full range of services in addition to aircraft management, which includes aircraft charter sales, aviation support services, and consulting. For more information about Solairus Aviation, visit www.solairusaviation.com or call 800-359-7861.

As one of the oldest cities in Europe, London is an entanglement of history, tradition, luxury and culture. With some of the best high-end shops in the world and Bishop’s Avenue, the British Royal Family members aren’t the only regal personages in town. Boasting more than enough opulence to go around, one of the best things about London is that it’s only a short trip away in your private charter jet from Europe’s other luxury cities. 

Where to Sleep

Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park Hotel:  If you love shopping and great views, the Mandarin Oriental on Knightsbrige offers the best of both worlds at one of the most prestigious addresses in the city. When staying at the Mandarin Oriental, consider booking the 2,045-square-foot Imperial Suite, one of the largest luxury retreats in London. In addition to butler service, you’ll enjoy a pillow menu, Ormonde Jayne bathroom amenities and a Bang & Olufsen entertainment system. (http://www.mandarinoriental.com/london/)

Dorchester Hotel: Situated on Mayfair’s Park Lane, the Dorchester Hotel is one of the most highly reputable hotels in the city for its traditional values, sumptuousness and charm. During your stay on your private charter jet, get a haircut at the Barber shop or from one of the Charles Worthington hairdressers, dress up your room with the help of the in-house florist or have the hotel’s Medical service cure your ailments. Stay in one of the Dorchester’s “roof suites,” which channel Hollywood’s retro glam era, come with a team of dedicated butlers and provide outside terraces that provide exclusive views of the city. (http://www.thedorchester.com/)

41: When you want to get away from the bustle of downtown, book a room at 41 on Buckingham Palace Road. The boutique accommodations give the hotel a London club feel. The bespoke services provide you with staff members who always remember your favorite drinks, newspapers and guest room. With its trademark black and white décor, the Conservatory Master Suite is a secluded penthouse with an open ceiling, views overlooking the Royal Mews, dining area, double Jacuzzi bath, business services, fireplace and Penhaligon amenities. (http://www.41hotel.com/)

Sights to See

Tower of London Jewel House: The Tower of London is rich with history and the Beefeater-guarded Jewel House always has something that will catch your eye. Serving as the secure storage area for the Crown Jewels and other Regalia, the collection includes crowns, scepters, swards, bracelets, robes and orbs. The most famous piece is the Imperial State Crown, which incorporates over 3,000 gems, including the Second Star of Africa, Stuart Sapphire, Queen Elizabeth’s Pearls and the Black Prince’s Ruby. (http://www.royal.gov.uk/The%20Royal%20Collection%20and%20other%20collections/TheCrownJewels/Overview.aspx)

London Eye:  The best place to get a view of the city, the London Eye on the River Thames was once the world’s tallest Ferris wheel. Book a Champagne Experience and enjoy priority boarding, Pommery Brut Royal Champagne, a 30-minute ride and the London Eye View 360.  (http://www.londoneye.com/)

Shop at Harrods: Located on Brompton Road in the Knightsbridge area, Harrods is seven floors and 4.5 acres of exquisite collections of fashion, fine jewelry, home décor, accessories, beauty treatments, fine foods, travel accessories and sports equipment. (http://www.harrods.com/)

Where to Eat

Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester: Earning the coveted three Michelin stars, Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester hotel brings the modern influence of Executive Chef Joycelyn Herland to the table. This exclusive dining experience requires a reservation. Serving seasonal English and French dishes, private dining is available upon request. (http://www.alainducasse-dorchester.com)

Hélène Darroze: Located at Connaught Carlos Place, the Hélène Darroze restaurant is a two Michelin star-rated eatery that serves up foods inspired by the southwest region of France. Enjoy a three-course business lunch in the span of an hour and come back during the weekend for Hélène’s famous brunch. (http://www.the-connaught.co.uk/london_restaurant.aspx)

Gordon Ramsay at Claridge’s: Dishing out modern European cuisine, the hot-tempered TV chef serves up his passion at Claridge’s Hotel. To experience the food at the ultra-exclusive, Art Deco-inspired eatery, a reservation is a must. Private dining options are available upon request. (http://www.claridges.co.uk/gordon-ramsay-restaurant.aspx)