Wine Trends for 2026: Alessandra Esteves’ Perspective
Wine Trends for 2026: Alessandra Esteves’ Perspective
As we look toward 2026, wine trends are being shaped by familiarity, travel, and a desire for clarity. According to Alessandra Esteves, DipWSET, Master of Wine candidate, and co-owner of 305 Wines, consumers are not chasing novelty. They are buying with confidence and intention.
Classic Grapes Still Lead
Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon continue to dominate consumer preferences. These grapes are widely understood and trusted, making them consistent best sellers. Sauvignon Blanc, in particular, remains strong, with Sancerre-style wines leading demand.
Explore our Sauvignon Blanc selection here:
https://305wines.com/collections/sauvignon-blanc
Travel Drives Regional Curiosity
Tourism plays a major role in shaping wine buying habits. Consumers travel, discover wines abroad, and then want to find those same regions back home. This is especially true for Portugal and Greece, where wine culture is closely tied to food and place.
Portugal collection:
https://305wines.com/collections/portugal
Greece collection:
https://305wines.com/collections/greece
Italy Expands Beyond the Classics
Italy remains one of the strongest categories in the U.S. market, but interest is shifting beyond traditional regions. Sicily, Sardinia, and Puglia are gaining attention, largely driven by travel and a desire for regional identity and value.
Bordeaux Continues to Rise
Bordeaux is firmly back on the radar. At 305 Wines, Bordeaux is a top-selling category thanks to a deep and accessible selection, ranging from everyday bottles around $20 to iconic wines reaching $2,000, including older vintages ready to drink. Consumers are rediscovering Bordeaux as both collectible and enjoyable today.
Spain Remains a Value Leader
Spain continues to offer exceptional value across multiple regions. Wines from Rías Baixas, Rioja, and Priorat consistently perform well, combining quality, diversity, and price integrity in a way that resonates with today’s buyers.
White Burgundy Demand Stays High
Demand for white Burgundy shows no sign of slowing. Appellations such as Meursault, Puligny-Montrachet, Chassagne-Montrachet, and Saint-Aubin remain highly sought after, with consumers drawn to their precision, texture, and minerality.
Champagne, Sparkling, and Rosé Growth
Champagne is back in the spotlight, with growing interest in Blanc de Blancs, Blanc de Noirs, and special cuvées. Sparkling wines and rosés continue to grow, especially during the spring and summer months.
Explore our Champagne selection here:
https://305wines.com/collections/champagne
Sake Continues to Gain Momentum
Sake continues to grow as wine drinkers discover its versatility with food. Education is key, and consumers are increasingly curious about styles, service, and pairing.
Explore our sake selection here:
https://305wines.com/collections/sake
Looking Ahead
Wine trends for 2026 are not about extremes. They are about trust, familiarity, and meaningful discovery. Consumers want wines they understand, regions they’ve visited, and shops that offer guidance rather than overload.
That is the approach behind every selection at 305 Wines.