As diners grow more curious and beverage programs evolve, sommeliers continue to spotlight regions that offer authenticity, freshness, and compelling value. The next wave of wine discovery is driven not by trends, but by place, purity, and story — and the sommeliers judging the Sommeliers Choice Awards 2026 are already identifying the regions that deserve attention.

From high-altitude European vineyards to pioneering American terroirs, here are the wine regions poised to shine in 2026, according to leading voices in hospitality:

Washington State & Umbria, Italy

Paul Solomon – Director of Restaurant Operations, Vistro Prime & Petite Vie

Paul sees tremendous momentum in both Washington State and Umbria. Washington continues to impress with quality-driven wines at approachable price points, while Umbria remains one of Italy’s most under-celebrated regions, producing character-rich wines that deserve more global attention.

Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico

Lee Schlesinger – VP, Portfolio Management & Education, Winesellers Ltd.

Lee highlights Valle de Guadalupe for its innovative spirit, terroir expression, and increasing relevance among adventurous wine buyers. With Mediterranean climate influences and passionate producers, Mexico’s leading wine region is gaining well-earned respect on restaurant lists.

Clare Valley, Australia

Jesse Hiney – General Manager at The Florentine | Certified Sommelier

For Jesse, Clare Valley Riesling represents the future — vibrant, precise, and built for food pairing. The region’s purity and elegant acidity offer a style that hospitality teams love working with, and consumers are quickly discovering.

Texas, USA

Jeff Van Ham – Sommelier, Proxi Restaurant Chicago

Jeff points to Texas as an emerging domestic frontier. While still growing, the state is gaining recognition for bold, expressive wines and a developing identity. With rising producer talent and increased sommelier curiosity, Texas is carving a new place on the American wine map.

Naoussa, Greece

Marsha Wright – Corporate Wine Director, Dineamic Hospitality

Marsha champions Naoussa, home to Xinomavro — a grape known for elegance, structure, and remarkable versatility. Offering Old-World character with modern charm, the region delivers exceptional value and food-pairing flexibility, a combination sommeliers love.

Portugal

Sandra Gomes Rocha – CEO and Co-Founder of Diniz Cellars

Sandra leans proudly into Portugal as a whole — from inland Alentejo to coastal vineyards and island expressions. Portugal’s commitment to heritage grapes, sustainability, and value makes it one of the most dynamic wine landscapes in the world today.

Txakoli, Spain (Basque Country)

Heather Durham Birley – Brand Manager, Winesellers Ltd.

Heather highlights Txakoli for its zesty freshness, saline character, and hospitality-friendly energy. Light, bright, and joyful to pour, Txakoli checks every box for sommeliers looking to inject excitement into by-the-glass lists.

Piedmont, Italy

Rachel Speckan – Portfolio Manager, Maverick Beverage Company

Rachel affirms Piedmont as a region of continued growth — not just in Barolo and Barbaresco, but in Barbera, Dolcetto, and lesser-known native varieties. With depth, heritage, and enduring appeal, Piedmont remains a sommelier favorite for good reason.

Alto Adige, Italy

Tiffany Tobey – Sommelier & Wine Director, The Ritz-Calton Hotel Company LLC.

Tiffany applauds Alto Adige for its alpine freshness, precision, and expressive acidity. From Pinot Bianco to Lagrein, Alto Adige delivers elegant, food-ready wines that embody purity and regional identity.

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A New Era of Exploration

Across all voices, themes emerge clearly:

- Freshness and acidity over power

- Authenticity over trend-chasing

- Native varieties and regional truth

- Value and discovery for guests

- Wines that elevate food and hospitality

As consumers continue to seek stories and experiences, these regions — each rooted in place and purpose — stand ready to capture the spotlight.

Also Read:
Sandra Gomes Rocha Joins as Sommeliers Choice Awards Region and Category Ambassador for Portugal.
From the Judge's Table: Insights from Jeff Van Ham, Sommelier at Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants
From The Judge's Table: Insights from Marsha Wright, Assistant General Manager at DineAmic Hospitality