You can redeem Delta SkyMiles for top-shelf Champagne — is it worth it?
There's plenty to love about Delta Sky Clubs. They're easy to gain entry to and the complimentary food and drink options are usually a step above most domestic lounges. But perhaps the best-kept secret of these lounges is the ability to redeem Delta SkyMiles for top-shelf Champagne.
In addition to a selection of complimentary house wines, well liquor and beer, Sky Clubs also offer an extensive menu of premium drinks for purchase — either with cash or miles — including brands like Dom Perignon. Historically, you would get 2 cents in value per mile on these redemptions, which was phenomenal. However, as pointed out by One Mile at a Time, Delta has now devalued these redemptions.
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Redeeming Delta SkyMiles for premium alcohol at Sky Clubs
Delta has updated its Sky Club premium alcohol menu. Along with that, it has updated some of its pricing. Notably, you'll now only get 1.5 cents in value per mile when paying with miles, instead of 2 cents per mile. This is a fixed redemption rate so it doesn't matter what type of alcohol you're redeeming for or if you're purchasing by the glass or bottle.
A 25% devaluation is a painful loss no matter how you look at it. That said, redeeming your SkyMiles for premium alcohol may still be worthwhile. TPG values SkyMiles at 1.1 cents apiece so you'll still be getting an above-average return. Not to mention, non-travel redemptions are usually much less valuable.
Some notable Champagnes Delta has on offer include Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label ($90/6,000 miles per bottle) and Dom Pérignon ($39/2,600 miles per glass or $195/13,000 miles per bottle). Other premium drinks include Grey Goose ($9/600 miles), Patron Extra Anejo ($18/1,200 miles) and Johnnie Walker Blue Label ($33/2,200 miles). Brands like Krug and Louis Roederer Cristal that were previously on offer are no longer available.
Just remember that if you purchase an entire bottle, it must be consumed in the Sky Club. You, unfortunately, can't take bottles to-go — even if they're unopened.
Related: Which airlines serve the best champagne in first class lounges?
Bottom line
Whether you gain your Delta SkyClub access from elite status, a premium-cabin ticket, or a card (such as The Platinum Card® from American Express or the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card; must have card and same-day corresponding airline ticket), you can redeem your SkyMiles for some of the best Champagne out there. The redemption rate may not be as valuable as it once was, but you'll still get an above-average return.