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Brussels Airlines has teamed up with Belgian mixologist Manuel Wouters and distillery Filliers to create “Heritage”, a new signature aperitif that is now exclusively available in Business Class on long-haul flights. Heritage pays homage to Belgium’s emblematic flavours: elderflower, apple and pear. This signature drink underscores the unique “Boutique Hotel” approach Brussels Airlines offers its passengers.

Manuel Wouters is one of Belgium’s most renowned mixologists. He founded Sips, one of Antwerp’s leading cocktail bars, and recently opened Mill Hill in Kasterlee, also in the province of Antwerp. Wouters hosts a TV show, has authored several cocktail books, and has developed his own range of premium Belgian gins.

Filliers is a Belgian distillery based in Deinze (East Flanders), founded in 1880. For six generations, the Filliers family has crafted high-quality spirits while continuing its long-standing tradition of distilling excellence. Brussels Airlines and Filliers have been long-time partners. Filliers Classic Gin 28 is available both in Business Class and through the buy-on-board menu in Economy Class.

Now, Manuel Wouters and Filliers have teamed up to create a signature aperitif for Business Class passengers on Brussels Airlines’ long-haul flights. Heritage is built around one clear ambition: to create a flavour that reflects Belgium. That is why the ingredients were deliberately chosen for their close connection to Belgian fruit growing and distilling traditions. Belgian apples, Pica pears, and elderflower form the foundation of the liqueur, complemented by a grain spirit of Belgian origin.

The development of Heritage took nearly ten months. Since September 2025, Manuel Wouters and Filliers have worked together to perfect the recipe. In total, eight different recipes were developed and tasted before the final blend was selected.

“In general, I am not a fan of pre-mixed cocktails. I agreed to work on this project with Brussels Airlines, but I was only willing to launch a product once I was 100% satisfied with the result. It took me months to find the perfect recipe, and I’m very happy with the outcome. We created a highly versatile drink that can be enjoyed on the rocks or mixed with tonic, ginger beer or even Champagne. I’m so excited about Heritage that I’ve decided to add it to the menu at my own bistro and bar as well.”
​ -Manuel Wouters, Mixologist, Mill Hill

“Heritage is another way of showcasing our Belgitude. All ingredients are sourced in Belgium, Heritage is distilled in Belgium, and it is exclusively available onboard Brussels Airlines flights, in our lounges or at Manuel’s own bar. We are confident that our passengers will enjoy this aperitif and that Heritage will help set the tone for an exceptional inflight experience.”
​- Steven Descamps, Inflight Product Manager, Brussels Airlines

Over time, Brussels Airlines aims to expand the Heritage range with a non-alcoholic alternative.

Investments in customer experience

Brussels Airlines is making significant investments to further enhance its customer experience. In 2026, the airline will introduce Starlink Wi-Fi, open a fully renovated lounge at Brussels Airport, and, earlier this year, introduced new tableware in Premium Economy.

In 2027, Brussels Airlines will introduce brand-new cabins across its long-haul fleet, further improving the passenger experience.