We Asked 15 Sommeliers: What Will Be the Wine of the Summer? (2026)

Summer is almost here, and that means one thing: it’s time to crack open a cold bottle and enjoy the longest days of the year. From backyard barbecues to poolside picnics, nothing pairs with warm weather quite like a crisp white, a refreshing rosé, or a zippy skin-contact wine.

Every year, a certain style captures the imagination and ends up in every beach bag and cooler. Remember the year of „rosé all day”? Or when orange wine suddenly flooded every Instagram feed? In 2026, sommeliers across the country are pointing to specific categories that they believe will dominate the season.

We asked 15 wine professionals for their picks. Here’s what they had to say.

Loire Valley Chenin Blanc: The Undisputed Champion

When Cécile Chastanet, general manager of Oyatte in New York City, talks about the wine of the summer, there’s no hesitation: Chenin Blanc from the Loire Valley, particularly from Vouvray and Montlouis-sur-Loire. Why? Because these wines deliver vibrant acidity, texture, and complexity while remaining refreshingly light for hot weather.

„They pair just as comfortably with seafood and vegetables as they do with richer dishes,” Chastanet explains, making them the perfect companion for the casual summer table.

Southern Italian Whites: Volcanic Energy in a Glass

Chris Plaia from Marisi in La Jolla is putting his money on whites from Southern Italy — Fiano and Falanghina from Campania, or Carricante from Etna. These wines are electric, volcanic, and brimming with minerality. Think summer melon salad or roasted branzino — these are the perfect match.

Natural Wines and the Picpoul Revolution

Darren Sung from Leiwine in NYC is reaching for Roberto Henriquez Torontel Super Estrella — a macerated wine from old vines of a natural cross between Muscat of Alexandria and País. The texture and aromatics — think fleshy longan, candied ginger, peach pith — hold up even when served too cold.

Meanwhile, Picpoul — that cheerful, affordable French grape — is winning hearts at raw bars across the country. It’s crisp, it’s fun, and it doesn’t break the bank.

Alsatian Blends and Chillable Reds

Kevin Denton Rex from Portland, Maine is betting on Alsatian blends — restrained, quaffable, and perfect for drinking without ceremony. And when temperatures dip? Chillable reds still reign supreme in Maine, where summer can be unpredictable.

What All These Wines Have in Common

Every pick on this list shares a common thread: lightness, acidity, and effortless drinkability. None of these sommeliers are recommending heavy, oak-driven wines. Summer 2026 is about freshness, energy, and the joy of drinking with friends.

How to Serve Wine in Summer: Expert Tips

• **Chill, but don’t overdo it** — many of these wines lose their aromas when served too cold
• **Pair with food** — light wines call for light dishes
• **Explore** — don’t be afraid of lesser-known grape varieties
• **Stay flexible** — summer is unpredictable; keep a few options on hand

Fiora Wines: Your Partner for Summer Events

Looking for professional bar service for your next event? Fiora Wines specializes in corporate event catering, fairs, and outdoor festivals. Our signature Mango Spritz is a completely original product — we’re the only ones producing it in Poland! We also serve our own Aperol Spritz (independent production, not the Aperol brand), draft beer, and signature cocktails.

Our main partner is Służewiec Racecourse — we provide bar service for horse racing events and social gatherings.

Meta description: 15 sommeliers reveal their top picks for the wine of summer 2026. From Loire Chenin Blanc to volcanic Italian whites, here’s what to drink this season.