Some drinks are more enjoyable when they pass through a giant metal tube in the earth’s upper atmosphere. Among passengers, ginger ale is popular, but the in-flight bloody mary is the ultimate choice for many frequent flyers.
Ingredients like ground salt, spices, and umami flavor often make drinks perfect for brunch. A bloody mary is a favorite choice at high altitudes, regardless of the time of day. But why do bloody marys (and other drinks) taste better on an airplane?
As CNET’s food and drink expert, I am always researching the what, why, and how of things when it comes to snacks and sips. This includes everything from finding the best grocery deals to cooking mess-free bacon and even enjoying a drink at 35,000 feet.
I spoke with Darren Bott, vice president of global food and beverage at Emirates Airlines, about the growing popularity of certain in-flight beverages. Emirates is known for its excellent food and beverage service, so it’s no surprise that their expert chefs understand the science behind serving trays.
There is a scientific explanation for the appeal of bloody marys. While some may think it’s the change in energy or the sound of the engine that suppresses sweetness and enhances the desire for salt and umami, Bott respectfully disagrees with these theories. Additionally, bloody marys are a better choice than other mixed drinks if you want to avoid dehydration during the flight.
So, here’s more about how our taste perception changes on a plane and why the bloody mary reigns supreme in the airline world.
A bloody mary is a must-have when flying.
How does flying change our perception of taste?
Bott: Being at a higher altitude affects our perception of taste and smell. While reducing the pressure in the cabin is commonly thought to be the main cause, factors such as living in a closed environment, temperature, and humidity significantly impact taste perception.
When we fly, our noses and mouths dry out due to decreased humidity, which can make certain foods and drinks taste bad while intensifying others. This is why the bold flavor of a bloody mary has gained popularity in-flight.
Certain drinks have a different effect when consumed on a plane.
What about bloody Mary?
One reason why people love ordering bloody marys on flights is because of the tomato’s high acidity, which stimulates saliva production and keeps the mouth moist. Additionally, the low sugar content helps passengers stay hydrated throughout the flight.
Does this also affect popular drinks like wine and whiskey?
The lack of moisture in the air can make it difficult to perceive certain smells and tastes. For wine enthusiasts, the dry environment on a plane can alter the perception of fruitiness, enhance oak flavors, and bring out new flavors that may not be noticeable in other settings. Low humidity can also make some wines taste stale while intensifying certain flavors.
The taste of wine and whiskey can also be affected by temperature and humidity.
What drinks do you recommend for passengers?
We have noticed a rise in the popularity of DIY cocktails or customized drinks. DIY cocktails allow our flight attendants to showcase their skills by creating the perfect drink, such as a breakfast martini (gin, orange marmalade, Cointreau, and fresh orange juice), preferably enjoyed in one of our A380 lounges.
So, what are your go-to drinks on a flight?
Personally, I prefer to have fresh water when flying, so I drink a lot of it. However, if I’m flying with Emirates, I might indulge in one of their many wines or a glass of Champagne or sparkling wine to enjoy during the flight.
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