Eight Wine Trends to Watch

Food and beverage trends are being shaped by Gen Z and Millennials more than ever. Wine brands must shift their focus away from Baby Boomers to stay relevant. These major demographic shifts come at a time when grapes and wine are abundant, yet the market is shrinking. Additionally, issues such as tariffs, the economy, water, and other environmental concerns are affecting the wine industry worldwide.

Here are LDV Winery's eight wine trends to watch in 2026. 

  1. Labor shortages continue to be a real problem. We anticipate this issue growing, particularly in agriculture and the hospitality industry. LDV Winery must continually look for talent.
  2. Tariffs continue to impact the supply chain and costs. LDV Winery primarily uses American oak barrels, but they still must be shipped to Arizona. However, we love our Grenache aged on French oak. Tariffs might make that a thing of the past due to the cost.
  3. Sustainability is a growing focus for consumers, though it has declined. Consumers are looking for tangible, transparent, participatory, and tied to everyday benefits. This includes a focus on regenerative agriculture, such as soil health. LDV Winery has focused on environmental sustainability since the first grapevines were planted, and maintaining soil health is a key component of our sustainability ethic.
  4. Health and wellness will continue to impact the wine industry. There is a growing demand for lower-alcohol, low-calorie, and reduced-sugar products due to a better-for-you perception. However, there appears to be a lack of understanding between lower alcohol and reduced sugar content. The two are not always directly related. LDV Winery table wines have always been zero residual sugar, gluten-free, and vegan. The link between alcohol drinking, including wine, and cancer is being widely publicized without caveats of moderation, the impact of other underlying health issues, or balancing the conversation with wine’s positive health impact. This worldwide movement is pushing governments, including the U.S., to more strongly regulate alcohol, including wine. 
  5. Consumers are shifting to an increased focus on quality and authenticity. They are turning away from ultra-processed substitutes like fake meat. Brands that lead with storytelling, personality, and cultural relevance will find traction. LDV works hard to communicate to consumers the direct benefits of our wine-making process, which uses limited additives and minimal manipulation.
  6. A key trend is “Indulgence.” People are looking to create moments that spark joy and memories. LDV Winery presents immersive wine experiences with an educational focus where guests can enjoy wine tasting and learn how the wine was made or where/how the grapes are grown.
  7. Evolving tastes toward lighter foods and wines is a growing trend. White wine is becoming more popular with younger drinkers. Sauvignon blanc now ranks third in the U.S., matching Chardonnay and closely trailing Pinot Grigio, according to Forbes. Sparkling wine is still strong, and Rosé sales are down, but premium Rosé sales are up. These wines are no longer viewed as cheap or seasonal summertime wines.
  8. Global flavors are a growing food trend. Asian, Middle Eastern, and Latin American foods are becoming increasingly popular, opening consumers to a whole new wine portfolio. Pairing wines with these global flavors can excite consumers to try new wines.