It’s well known within the business, but perhaps maybe not among consumers, that the seas of the wine world have been stormy of late. People are getting sober, younger people are drinking less, and many Baby Boomers, America’s most reliable wine consumers for decades, are easing off a bit. But the concerns we have in the industry are not necessarily the concerns of individual wine lovers. Indeed, moments of uncertainty for the wine business can cause some pretty advantageous conditions for those who just want to buy and enjoy great wine at excellent prices.
All that said, here are some thoughts on 2026 from our VPs of Wine, Eduardo Dingler and Laura Koffer, plus our Head Writer Pete Holland.
What are some shifts, developments, or ideas in the wine world that you’re genuinely looking forward to this year?
VP of Wine, Eduardo Dingler
Challenges in the wine world that ultimately result in a favorable landscape for consumers: The quality of wines is rising, the prices of mid-range wines relax, and we are able to offer superb quality for the price. Along with that, I’m hoping for ideal growing conditions around the world to result in great examples of classic wines. I’m thrilled to stay the course and keep sourcing excellent wines, as we always strive to do.
VP of Wine, Laura Koffer
There is no better time than now to be starting your wine journey or branching out into new regions. The shifting markets have made high-quality wines more affordable. And I’m really excited about the incredible vintages of the 2010s from many regions that are starting to really come into their own.
Head Writer, Pete Holland
First off, I’m interested to see whether a fantastic 2025 Bordeaux vintage and recent slumping sales in the region combine for fantastic deals during En Primeur—it’s always fun to offer top-scoring wines for great prices, knowing these wines will be in our members’ cellars for decades to come.
I’m also interested in seeing how Napa wineries navigate the current landscape regarding prices: Are there enough top-end buyers to keep wineries selling $300+ Cabernet, or are prices going to come down a bit? Unrelated to economic conditions, I can’t wait to see the non-traditional wines that California winemakers release this year. Recently it seems like many CA wineries have been more adventurous when it comes to varieties and styles, which is great for consumers. I love Cabernet and Chardonnay, but there is so much more exciting stuff out there. I dream of the day when our members snap up high-scoring (and relatively affordable) Grenache and Syrah from California’s Central Coast. These are incredible values!
On a more personal level, what’s something about wine right now that’s getting you excited?
VP of Wine, Eduardo Dingler
I personally can’t get enough of three categories: Champagne, especially from small grower-producers. Sake, which is a personal passion of mine, and I continue my quest to bring wider styles and unique producers to our platform. Lastly, Italy, in particular Campania and Sicily. I have a continued love affair with these two unique regions, the culture, the people and therefore the wines they produce.
VP of Wine, Laura Koffer
I visited various countries along the Danube this year and was blown away by the quality of wine. I’m excited to explore more and find new, outstanding Austrian and Hungarian bottles for our members.
Head Writer, Pete Holland
My oldest daughter was born in 2016, so I’m excited to drink a ten-year-old wine from her birth year (and maybe share a tiny sip with her). That was a great vintage in California, Rioja, Tuscany, Piedmont, and the Southern Rhône, so we’re spoiled for choice. Also, I am encouraged by how many restaurants and wine bars are offering older wines by the glass by using a Coravin. I love old wines more than anything, and this gives consumers a chance to drink really interesting stuff without shelling out for a whole bottle (or, I suppose, cellaring it ourselves).
I want to end with one thought. I don’t drink as much wine as I used to, but a recent evening in a fantastic Amsterdam wine bar (Cafe de Klepel, Prinsenstraat 22) with a glass of 20-year-old white Burgundy really reminded me of how magical wine can be. One hour, just me and the glass and a tattered copy of Walden, pausing every few pages to chat with the knowledgeable barman. Every sip was delicious, every sip was different—and I could go ten minutes without even taking a sip, just swirling and smelling. With apologies to my whiskey- and beer-loving friends, there is no other beverage nearly as captivating. Or at least not to me. Moments like that are why I love being in this business, and I wish all our members plenty of them in 2026.
