James Beard Award–winning sommelier Belinda Chang is used to schlepping glass goods. “I’m generally flying with bottles in both directions,” she says, bringing American wines to friends in Europe, and vice versa. But even if you aren’t in the business, Chang believes it’s worth bringing back these precious fragile souvenirs.
“Assuming you had a fantastic trip, you want to remember it,” Chang says. “While taking pictures and posting them on social media is a lovely way to do that, there’s something about aromas and flavors that shock us into a whole other level of revelry and happiness and memory of the moment.”
Whether it’s a cellar-worthy bottle of Pinot Noir or a hyper local balsamic vinegar, you’ll need to get strategic about how you pack up your prizes. Here are Chang’s pro tips for getting your bottle home in one piece for every type of flyer.
The Discount Airliner Option
When you know you’ll be toting back glass bottles, Chang recommends packing empty poly mailer bags. She does this so she can stow fragile liquids in her luggage and send home her dirty laundry, which is lighter and cheaper than shipping a heavy case of wine. “It feels like you’re shedding clothes, then refilling your luggage with all these treats and magical, delicious things,” Chang says.
From there, “all you need to do is make sure you prevent the bottles from hitting each other,” Chang notes. Wrapping your items securely in worn athleisure, which is made of moisture-wicking material and somewhat waterproof. (Plus, she notes, “you don’t have to spend any extra money for that.”) You can then stow those bundles in packing cubes for extra protection, and your things won’t budge.
The Economy Plus Version
Chang, along with sommelier André Mack, are on the founding board for Panier. The wine bag company’s two-bottle Pico is chic enough to use as a tote and made of durable ballistic nylon—similar to the luxury material used in Formula 1 race cars. To keep your goods extra chill, pop in an ice pack; the Pico stays at a ready-to-pour 50°F for 20 hours.
The Private Jet Equivalent
The Rimowa wine suitcase is as luxurious as they come (also perhaps the only suitcase of its kind). For $9,900, the aluminum roller contains custom foam inserts, 360° wheels, and enough room to hold a 12-bottle case.
