Top 15 Wine Trends: Wine Stats and Trends (2026)

Wine Trends: What's Changing and Why It Matters

As the culinary landscape evolves, so too do the trends shaping the wine industry. The latest insights reveal dynamic shifts in consumer preferences, production styles, and market opportunities. According to Toast's Restaurant Trends Report, wine consumption has been particularly notable in certain regions, showcasing a growing appreciation for diverse varieties and experiences. Here are key wine trends and insights to keep an eye on:

• Regional Preferences: Massachusetts tops the list for wine consumption per restaurant location, with diners enjoying 72% more wine than the national average. Florida and Rhode Island follow closely behind.

These trends underscore a vibrant and evolving wine market that reflects consumers' changing tastes and preferences. As restaurants adapt to these shifts, understanding these insights will be crucial for staying ahead in the competitive landscape.

Here are 15 key wine trends currently reshaping the restaurant scene.

Top 15 Wine Trends

1. Natural and Organic Wines

What is the trend: Natural and organic wines are gaining widespread popularity in restaurant wine programs. These wines are made with minimal intervention, using organic or biodynamic farming methods, and little to no additives, including sulfur.

What is contributing to the trend and who is adopting it: The rising demand for sustainable and eco-friendly dining experiences is driving restaurants to offer natural and organic wines. Diners, particularly younger generations, are increasingly conscious of the environmental and health impacts of their food and drink choices, leading to the inclusion of these wines in menus that prioritize transparency and sustainability.

Signals it will persist: As more consumers seek out wines with a sense of place and minimal additives, the presence of natural and organic wines in restaurants will continue to expand, aligning with the broader push toward cleaner, more sustainable dining options.

2. Low- and No-Alcohol Wines

What is the trend: The demand for low- and no-alcohol wines is growing as part of a broader shift toward health-conscious consumption. These wines offer the complexity and enjoyment of traditional wines without the higher alcohol content, making them appealing to those seeking moderation.

What is contributing to the trend and who is adopting it: The rise in wellness culture and mindful drinking has made low- and no-alcohol wines a sought-after option. Many establishments are recognizing that offering these choices opens the door to a wider audience, including those who wish to enjoy a sophisticated beverage experience without the effects of alcohol.

Signals it will persist: As wellness and moderation continue to shape consumer behavior, the demand for low- and no-alcohol wines will likely grow, becoming a staple in wine lists that cater to diverse preferences.

3. Orange Wines

What is the trend: Orange wines—white wines made using extended skin contact—have emerged as a popular choice for adventurous wine drinkers. Their bold flavors, unique textures, and striking appearance make them a standout option on wine lists.

What is contributing to the trend and who is adopting it: Orange wines have gained traction in wine programs looking to offer something unconventional. Their distinct, earthy profiles appeal to diners interested in exploring lesser-known styles, and they often pair well with a variety of foods, enhancing their versatility on tasting menus.

Signals it will persist: As diners continue to seek out novel wine experiences, orange wines will maintain a presence on forward-thinking wine lists, particularly in settings where innovation and experimentation are valued.

4. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Packaging

What is the trend: Restaurants are increasingly embracing sustainable packaging options for wine, including boxed wines, cans, and lightweight glass bottles, in an effort to reduce their environmental footprint.

What is contributing to the trend and who is adopting it: The growing emphasis on sustainability and waste reduction in the hospitality industry is driving this shift. Consumers are more likely to support businesses that prioritize eco-friendly practices, and offering wines in sustainable packaging aligns with this value. Additionally, these formats are practical for certain types of service, such as outdoor dining or take-home options.

Signals it will persist: As environmental concerns continue to shape consumer choices, sustainable wine packaging will likely become more prevalent, reflecting the broader move toward greener restaurant operations.

5. Wine on Tap

What is the trend: Serving wine on tap is becoming a popular practice in restaurants, offering a fresh, eco-friendly, and efficient way to serve wine by the glass. This method reduces packaging waste and preserves the wine’s quality by keeping it in a controlled environment.

What is contributing to the trend and who is adopting it: The cost-effectiveness of wine on tap, combined with its environmental benefits, makes it an appealing option for many restaurants. This method also enables establishments to offer a rotating selection of wines by the glass, enhancing their ability to feature unique and seasonal selections.

Signals it will persist: As restaurants continue to explore more sustainable and efficient service methods, wine on tap will remain a favored choice, especially in venues that emphasize fresh, high-quality pours without the waste associated with traditional bottling.

6. Expanded Wine-by-the-Glass Programs

What is the trend: Expanding wine-by-the-glass offerings allows diners to sample a wider variety of wines without committing to a full bottle. This trend gives restaurants the flexibility to showcase both popular and lesser-known varieties, making wine more accessible to all guests.

What is contributing to the trend and who is adopting it: The growing demand for flexibility and personalization in dining experiences is driving this trend. Guests appreciate the opportunity to try different wines across a meal, and offering a broad by-the-glass selection caters to this desire for variety, encouraging exploration and repeat visits.

Signals it will persist: With the continued interest in curated and customizable dining experiences, expanded wine-by-the-glass programs will remain a key element in restaurant wine offerings, enhancing the overall guest experience.

7. Regional and Lesser-Known Wines

What is the trend: Wines from underrepresented regions and lesser-known varieties are gaining popularity as diners become more adventurous in their selections. This trend reflects a growing curiosity about the world of wine beyond the traditional powerhouses like France, Italy, and California.

What is contributing to the trend and who is adopting it: Many establishments are incorporating wines from regions such as Eastern Europe, South America, and the Middle East, offering guests a chance to discover new flavors and winemaking traditions. These selections often come with intriguing backstories that appeal to wine lovers seeking something off the beaten path.

Signals it will persist: As consumers continue to explore global food and beverage cultures, the demand for regional and lesser-known wines will grow, enriching wine lists and offering unique, memorable experiences.

8. Sparkling Wines Beyond Champagne

What is the trend: While Champagne remains a classic choice, other sparkling wines, such as Cava, Prosecco, and Pét-Nat, are gaining traction as alternatives that offer variety and value.

What is contributing to the trend and who is adopting it: The popularity of sparkling wines across different price points makes them accessible to a broader audience. These wines are celebrated for their versatility, fitting seamlessly into a range of dining occasions, from casual brunches to celebratory dinners, making them a frequent choice for restaurants looking to offer festive options without the premium price tag of Champagne.

Signals it will persist: As sparkling wines continue to diversify, diners’ appreciation for bubbly beyond Champagne will expand, ensuring that these alternatives remain a fixture on wine lists.

9. Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly Wines

What is the trend: With the rise in plant-based dining, vegan and vegetarian-friendly wines, made without animal-derived fining agents, are becoming increasingly sought after.

What is contributing to the trend and who is adopting it: The growing popularity of plant-based diets and eco-conscious dining has prompted restaurants to prioritize wines that align with these values. By offering vegan-friendly wines, establishments can cater to a broader clientele while promoting ethical winemaking practices.

Signals it will persist: As the plant-based movement continues to grow, the demand for vegan and vegetarian-friendly wines will increase, reinforcing the importance of these options in a diverse wine program.

10. Hybrid and Experimental Varietals

What is the trend: Winemakers are experimenting with hybrid grape varietals and innovative techniques, creating wines that challenge traditional norms. These hybrids are often bred to resist disease, adapt to climate changes, or offer new, distinctive flavor profiles.

What is contributing to the trend and who is adopting it: Climate change is forcing winemakers to look for varieties that can thrive in shifting environmental conditions. As a result, restaurants are showcasing these experimental wines, offering guests an opportunity to explore something unique and forward-thinking.

Signals it will persist: As winemaking continues to evolve in response to environmental pressures, hybrid and experimental varietals will remain an exciting option for wine programs, appealing to diners looking for something truly different.

11. Custom Wine Pairings and Tasting Menus

What is the trend: Personalized wine pairings are becoming more common, with sommeliers tailoring recommendations to individual palates. This bespoke approach enhances the dining experience by creating a curated journey through wine and tasting menu items.

What is contributing to the trend and who is adopting it: The increasing demand for experiential dining has led many establishments to offer custom wine pairings, allowing guests to enjoy a more intimate and personalized experience. Sommeliers take the time to understand preferences, creating pairings that align with both the dish and the diner’s taste profile.

Signals it will persist: As experiential dining grows in popularity, the trend of custom wine pairings will likely continue, offering a heightened level of service that appeals to discerning diners.

12. Biodynamic Wines

What is the trend: Biodynamic winemaking, which incorporates holistic farming principles, including the use of lunar cycles and natural preparations, is becoming a cornerstone of sustainable wine programs.

What is contributing to the trend and who is adopting it: The focus on environmental sustainability is driving interest in biodynamic wines, which are valued for their purity and expression of terroir. Restaurants that emphasize eco-friendly practices are increasingly incorporating biodynamic options into their wine lists.

Signals it will persist: As the demand for sustainable and environmentally conscious dining grows, biodynamic wines will remain a popular choice for wine programs that prioritize both quality and ethical production.

13. Wine and Food Pairing Dinners

What is the trend: Special wine pairing dinners, where each course is carefully matched with a complimentary wine, are becoming popular as a way to offer an immersive and educational dining experience.

What is contributing to the trend and who is adopting it: These events, often featuring guest winemakers or sommeliers, attract diners interested in deepening their understanding of wine. They also offer a unique way to engage guests, create memorable experiences, and showcase a restaurant’s wine expertise.

Signals it will persist: As guests continue to seek out enriching and interactive dining experiences, wine pairing dinners will remain a popular offering, highlighting the artistry of both wine and food in a collaborative way.

14. Wine Education and Tasting Events

What is the trend: Wine education and tasting events are becoming increasingly popular, offering guests the chance to deepen their wine knowledge in a fun, social setting. These events might range from introductory classes to more in-depth sessions focused on regions, varietals, or winemaking techniques.

What is contributing to the trend and who is adopting it: As consumers become more interested in the story behind the wine, wine education has emerged as an appealing way to engage with both novices and enthusiasts alike. People are looking for ways to connect with wine beyond just drinking it—understanding its origin, production process, and how to taste it properly adds depth to the experience.

Signals it will persist: As wine culture becomes more accessible and curiosity about wine continues to grow, these education and tasting events will likely remain a key way for businesses to engage their customers, enhancing appreciation and loyalty.

15. International Wine Selections

What is the trend: Wine lists are expanding to feature a wider array of international selections, showcasing wines from regions not typically seen in more conventional offerings. This includes not only lesser-known European regions but also emerging wine markets in places like South America, South Africa, and the Balkans.

What is contributing to the trend and who is adopting it: In a world where consumers are more globally connected, the desire to explore and taste wines from all corners of the world has grown. Importers and distributors are making it easier for establishments to stock international wines, helping to educate customers on the diversity of global winemaking traditions. This not only brings variety but also the thrill of discovery for patrons seeking new wine experiences.

Signals it will persist: As global access to wines improves and consumers become more adventurous in their choices, international wine selections will continue to be a trend, offering unique and exciting alternatives to the familiar wines of traditional wine-producing regions.

By continuing to embrace these diverse wine trends, businesses are able to cater to a broad spectrum of consumer preferences, enhance their offerings, and create memorable experiences that resonate with their patrons. Whether it's through sustainable practices, educational events, or a focus on unique wine pairings, these trends will persist as part of a broader shift toward personalized, ethical, and adventurous wine programs.