Top 7 Wine Trends to Watch in 2026

Hey wine lovers (and wine-curious folks dipping your toes in), it's Beverly Crandon here, your certified sommelier spilling the juice on what's bubbling up for 2026.

As we toast goodbye to 2025's wild rides, the wine world is evolving faster than a pét-nat fizzing open. I've scoured the vineyards, chatted with winemakers from Ontario to the Rhône, and crunched the data to bring you the top 7 trends that’ll shape your glass this year.

Whether you're pairing with jerk chicken at a Basseterre beach barbecue or elevating your Netflix night, these trends make wine more fun, sustainable, and inclusive. Let's dive in, and trust, there is no sommelier snobbery required!

Top 7 Wine Trends to Watch in 2026

1. Hyper-Local Heroes (Micro-Regions)

Forget chasing the same old Bordeaux blends. In 2026, it's all about hyper-local wines from overlooked pockets like Slovenia's Vipava Valley or South Africa's Swartland outliers. Climate resilience is driving this. Smaller plots adapt quicker to wonky weather.

Why it rocks: These wines punch above their weight in flavour and story. Try a Vipava Valley Ribolla Gialla with grilled island seafood skewers. Its zingy apple and herb notes cut through the spice like magic. Pro tip: Hunt them at indie shops or apps like Vivino for that "I discovered it first" vibe.

2. Low/No-Alcohol Glow-Ups

Dry January? Non-alcoholic wines aren't watery wannabes anymore. They're sophisticated dealsabres with 0.5% ABV or less, using dealcoholization tech that keeps the soul intact.

Pairing play: A zero-proof Riesling alongside spicy Caribbean roti. It's crisp, saline, and fools your tastebuds into thinking it's the real deal. Brands like Leaning Post, and French Bloom are leading - expect them on every brunch menu.

3. The Skin-Contact (Orange Wine) Party Continues

Orange wines, which are whites fermented on skins, are no longer "weird." They're the texture bangers of 2026, with global sales up 30% last year. Think peachy, tannic sippers from Georgia to Australia.

Fun twist: Pair a Slovenian orange Rkatsiteli with pork belly tacos. The grippy tannins tame the heat, while orange zest notes dance with Scotch bonnet.

It is perfect for texture lovers avoiding reds.

4. Sustainable and Regenerative Superstars

Regenerative agriculture is the buzz. Beyond organic, it's rebuilding soil with cover crops and no-till farming. Expect labels shouting "biodynamic" and "carbon-positive" from well established icons in the industry.

Why care? Healthier vines mean epic wines. Sip a regen Syrah from South Africa's Hartenberg Wine Estate . Your purchase fights climate change; double win!

5. AI Sommeliers and AR Tastings: Tech Meets Terroir

Apps like Vivino's AI upgrade and new AR glasses (hello, Nreal Air pairings) scan your plate and suggest wines in real-time.

My take: As a sommelier, I love it as it democratizes expertise. Scan your local fish fry, get a rec for Albariño, and boom - the perfect match. Just don't let it replace chatting with your local wine pro (wink).

6. Hybrid Grapes and Climate Warriors

Breeders are unleashing hybrids like Solaris (drought-proof white) and Regent (rot-resistant red) that thrive in warming climates. France and Germany are planting millions; they'll flood shelves affordably.

Pairing gem: A Solaris pét-nat with mango ceviche. Bubbly tropical punch without the fragility. These grapes future-proof your cellar in some ways.

7. Wellness-Infused Wines

Probiotic ferments, CBD-infused rosés, and adaptogen-laced reds (think ashwagandha for chill vibes) are wellness wine's next wave. Lower sulfites, gut-friendly yeasts, it's wine that loves you back.

Inclusive hack: CBD Grenache rosé with a yoga-post Sashimi bowl. Calms the palate and the mind. Look for pioneers like FitVine or emerging adaptogen lines.

There you have it, 2026's wine playbook, blending innovation with indulgence. These trends are accessible, eco-smart, and downright delicious for everyone.

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What's your must-try trend? Drop a comment—let's chat!

Cheers to a stellar sip-year ahead! 🍷🌴