As the founder of Passion Vines, I’ve watched the wine world evolve into a curious, informed, and adventurous landscape over the last twenty years. For our January column, here are the trends I’m betting will shape 2026—and concrete actions you can take to taste, learn, and expand your palate. A heartfelt thanks to our readers, guests, and friends who make every tasting, event, and conversation possible.
1) Transparency and Terroir at the Forefront
Wine lovers want stories they can trust. Producers are embracing clearer disclosures on vineyard practices, climate considerations, and sourcing. Expect more natural and minimal-intervention styles presented with precise farm-to-glass narratives.
Action: Seek wines labeled with vineyard maps and or producer notes, and attend producer-led tastings that unpack terroir and farming choices. At Passion Vines, we’ll be continuing our guided tastings that feature passionate farmers, producers, and winemakers from around the world.
2) Climate-Driven Diversity: Regions Redefining the Glossary
As weather patterns shift, regions adapt with new grape blends and innovative winemaking. You’ll see more experiments with new varieties in familiar regions (and more statements from regions once considered offbeat). Expect more fortified, pétillant, and age-worthy options from unexpected corners.
Action: Try a grape or region you’ve overlooked. Pick up a bottle from a producer or importer you don’t typically buy from. “Open That Bottle Night” at Passion Vines is a great way to explore hidden regions and bold profiles.
3) Lower-ABV, Higher-Expression WinesLower alcohol, higher aroma and texture wines are gaining momentum—think balanced, food-friendly wines that pair with modern Mediterranean and global cuisine. The emphasis is on energy, acidity, and storytelling rather than heaviness.
Action: Build a tasting flight around lighter-styled bottles — rosé, dry sparkling, and cool-climate whites. Challenge yourself to pair a low-ABV wine with a tasting menu or a weeknight dinner.
4) The Rise of Wine Education as a Social Practice
Consumers aren’t just buying wine; they’re building rituals—club memberships, family-style tastings, and education-forward events. The social experience is a product in itself.
Action: Create a monthly “Wine & Wonder” night with friends—rotate hosting, choose a theme (native grape varieties, sparkling celebrations, or regional tables). Sign up for a series at Passion Vines like Wine Foundations.
5) Sustainability as Standard, Not a Buzzword
From packaging to production, sustainability becomes a given baseline. Consumers expect environmentally minded choices, including recycled packaging, reduced carbon footprints, and ethical sourcing.
Action: Favor bottles with clear sustainability statements—organic or biodynamic farming, wines made in the vineyard (not a boardroom), or producers leveraging renewable energy. Host a “Sustainable Sips” tasting, spotlighting eco-conscious makers.
6) Diversified Occasion Wines
Wine isn’t only for special occasions. Every day, celebrants are seeking wines that elevate meals, adventures, and social moments—packing flavor and curiosity into every pour.
Action: Create an “Everyday Extraordinary” shelf — choose approachable wines with elevated character for daily meals. Plan a Sunday pairing brunch that includes a sparkling, a white, a red, and a dessert wine, each matched to a course.
To our generous community of wine lovers, hosts, producers, and educators: thank you! Your curiosity fuels our events, your questions sharpen our conversations, and your shared bottles turn tastings into gatherings. Here’s to a year of learning, laughter, and delicious discoveries — together.
Kaizen,
Michael Bray
