Southwest Airlines Drops Crown Royal and Foster's; Downgrades to Vendange Wines

Lately, I've been traveling a lot (not wine related), which is why July was a lean month for new wine posts at Winewaves.  Residing in Nashville as I do, and being on a budget, I've been loyal to Southwest Airlines for years.  In fact, three of the past 6 years, I've flown Southwest enough to earn a companion pass - no small feat.  And although I've experienced the ups and downs of air travel, I've always remained "in LUV with SWA".

However, for the first time, I'm truly disappointed with Colleen Barrett and the beancounters at SWA.  They just cheapened the bar!  Gone is Crown Royal!  Ouch!  Also out is Beringer's Stone Cellars Merlot and Chardonnay, replaced by noticeably lower quality Vendange.  Finally, Foster's has been replaced by Bud Select.

The resulting "bar menu" is short, yet it has Wild Turkey and Jack Daniels - a bourbon and very similar "Tennessee Whisky" on it.  They removed Crown, but no other Canadian took its place.  What do they have against Canadian whiskey?

I've always heard that only Jack would be offered were it not that Turkey is co-founder Herb Kelleher's fave.  Still, wasn't Crown a popular fave of the Vegas traveler, not to mention me?

Obviously, as Southwest is gradually losing its fuel hedge advantages over other airlines, they are rapidly feeling the need to cut costs, simplify offerings, and save money anywhere.

As for me, after an exhausting day on the road, once that door has closed and the cell phones are off, I want to think about the good options for a relaxing drink. 

I'm happy Heineken is still on the menu.  But I wish Southwest would reinstate Crown Royal, especially if they don't plan to upgrade the wine.  Charge $5 instead of $4 if need be.  Better yet, go the other way and offer more wine choices, even if at higher prices.

Comments

[AliveWithPassion]

Loved this blog,how true it is!