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We Asked 15 Sommeliers: What Will Be the Wine of the Summer? (2026)
We Asked 15 Sommeliers: What Will Be the Wine of the Summer? (2026)
📷 A glass of crisp white wine against a golden summer sunset backdrop
Summer is here, and with it comes the eternal question: what should you be drinking? From backyard barbecues and pool parties to long evenings on the terrace, the right bottle can make or break a gathering. So we asked 15 of the best sommeliers in the US and Europe one simple question: what will be the wine of the summer in 2026?
Their answers? Surprising, exciting, and refreshingly diverse. But one thing is clear: this year, it’s all about freshness, lightness, and unexpected varieties.
Loire Valley Chenin Blanc: The Crowd Favorite
If there’s one winner of this summer, it’s Chenin Blanc from the Loire Valley — particularly from Vouvray and Montlouis-sur-Loire. These wines combine vibrant acidity, texture, and complexity while remaining refreshing enough for the hottest days.
Cécile Chastanet, general manager at New York’s Oyatte, highlights their remarkable versatility: „They pair just as comfortably with seafood and vegetables as they do with richer dishes, making them especially relevant as more diners seek food-friendly wines.”
Southern Italian Whites: The Hidden Gem
The second big trend of summer 2026 will be white wines from Southern Italy — especially volcanic Fiano and Falanghina from Campania, and Carricante from Mount Etna. These wines are electric, mineral-driven, and crisp — perfect companions for summer.
Chris Plaia from Marisi in La Jolla puts it bluntly: „The drinking public will eventually stop sleeping on the lesser-known white grapes of Southern Italy. They’re brimming with minerality and crisp acidity.”
📷 Colorful summer cocktails and wines on a garden table at golden hour
Lambrusco, Picpoul, and Chillable Reds: For the Adventurous
Not everyone wants white wine. Lambrusco — light, sparkling red from Emilia-Romagna — is making a comeback as the ideal partner for pizza and grilled sausages. Picpoul from Languedoc offers incredible value for money: racy, mineral, perfect with seafood.
Kevin Denton Rex from Portland points to chillable reds — light reds served cold: „People are gravitating toward more textured rosé and chilled reds. It’s a trend that’s growing every season.”
What These Wines Have in Common: Lightness and Authenticity
The common thread? Lightness, freshness, and authenticity. Gone are the heavy, oaky summer wines. In 2026, sommeliers are championing wines that respect the fruit, have lower alcohol, and pair beautifully with summer food.
It’s also the perfect opportunity to discover new flavors — whether it’s Loire Valley Chenin Blanc, volcanic whites from Sicily, or Portuguese varieties gaining global recognition.
The Bottom Line: What to Reach For This Summer
Planning a corporate event, wedding, or garden party? Choose wisely:
- **Loire Valley Chenin Blanc** — elegance and versatility
- **Southern Italian whites** — minerality and energy
- **Lambrusco or Picpoul** — light, accessible, food-friendly
- **Chillable reds** — for those who won’t give up on red wine
And if you need someone to take care of bar service at your event, Fiora Wines has you covered. We don’t just serve drinks — we create experiences your guests will remember.
