World's Best Sommeliers' Selection 2026 Unveils Top Wines from Around the Globe
On February 25, 2026, the awaited announcement of the World's Best Sommeliers' Selection took place, showcasing an impressive collection of wines that exemplifies global viniculture excellence. Lead by Kristell Monot, the president of the World's Best Sommeliers' Selection and the head sommelier at Mugaritz, a diverse panel of sommeliers from 17 nations across six continents tasted a broad array of wines to curate a refined list of 115 selections representative of 16 different countries.
Italy emerged as the leader with a total of 20 wines, prominently featuring 13 reds. The Nebbiolo grape stood out, offering four distinguished wines from the Barolo and Barbaresco regions. Other noteworthy inclusions were Clara Marcelli's Grenache and a modern-style Merlot from Tenuta Del Paguro, signifying Italy's dynamic wine landscape.
Portugal followed closely with 18 selections in various categories, including white, red, and fortified wines. Notably, five white wines showcased the richness of native Portuguese varietals, while all eight red wines hailing from the Douro Valley highlighted the region's unique terroir. Portugal's tradition in fortified wine was reaffirmed with three Ports and two Madeiras, further exemplifying its mastery in this segment.
The United States ranked third with 17 wines, led by California's impressive lineup of six reds and one white. The range included Sonoma's Pinot Noir and several outstanding Cabernet Sauvignons from Paso Robles. Texas contributed six wines, while Oregon's Lingua Franca made its mark with four selections focused on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
Spain enhanced the list with seven reds originating from celebrated regions such as Ribera del Duero, Rioja, and Priorat. The resurgence of interest in fortified wines was symbolized by two exceptional Sherries, and Pere Ventura's Cava reinforced Spain's dominant presence in sparkling wines.
Argentina showcased its prowess with 12 wines, confirming its reputation as a Malbec powerhouse with seven red varieties. In addition, four white wines illustrated the country's expanding stylistic range, with producer Rutini demonstrating versatility through a Malbec, a Chardonnay, and a traditional method sparkling wine. Uruguay contributed five wines, while Brazil and Chile added unique offerings to the list.
Across Europe, France led in sparkling and rosé categories, while Germany's three Rieslings caught the judges' attention. Czech producer Gurdau secured three spots with their Riesling, Grüner Veltliner, and a sparkling wine. The selections from Georgia included two indigenous varietals, while Greece contributed a white and a red wine.
A spokesperson from the World's Best Sommeliers' Selection noted, "This year's list reflects the incredible diversity of the global wine landscape—from esteemed classics to bold new voices. It remains a reliable benchmark for hospitality professionals, and we take pride in uniting the world's best sommeliers to define the future of wine."
This selection of wines not only signifies the excellence found in different terroirs but also the creativity and innovation driving the wine industry forward. The full list of the World's Best Sommeliers' Selection 2026 is available on their official media center, further inspiring wine enthusiasts and collectors alike to explore the latest in fine wines.
Italy emerged as the leader with a total of 20 wines, prominently featuring 13 reds. The Nebbiolo grape stood out, offering four distinguished wines from the Barolo and Barbaresco regions. Other noteworthy inclusions were Clara Marcelli's Grenache and a modern-style Merlot from Tenuta Del Paguro, signifying Italy's dynamic wine landscape.
Portugal followed closely with 18 selections in various categories, including white, red, and fortified wines. Notably, five white wines showcased the richness of native Portuguese varietals, while all eight red wines hailing from the Douro Valley highlighted the region's unique terroir. Portugal's tradition in fortified wine was reaffirmed with three Ports and two Madeiras, further exemplifying its mastery in this segment.
The United States ranked third with 17 wines, led by California's impressive lineup of six reds and one white. The range included Sonoma's Pinot Noir and several outstanding Cabernet Sauvignons from Paso Robles. Texas contributed six wines, while Oregon's Lingua Franca made its mark with four selections focused on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
Spain enhanced the list with seven reds originating from celebrated regions such as Ribera del Duero, Rioja, and Priorat. The resurgence of interest in fortified wines was symbolized by two exceptional Sherries, and Pere Ventura's Cava reinforced Spain's dominant presence in sparkling wines.
Argentina showcased its prowess with 12 wines, confirming its reputation as a Malbec powerhouse with seven red varieties. In addition, four white wines illustrated the country's expanding stylistic range, with producer Rutini demonstrating versatility through a Malbec, a Chardonnay, and a traditional method sparkling wine. Uruguay contributed five wines, while Brazil and Chile added unique offerings to the list.
Across Europe, France led in sparkling and rosé categories, while Germany's three Rieslings caught the judges' attention. Czech producer Gurdau secured three spots with their Riesling, Grüner Veltliner, and a sparkling wine. The selections from Georgia included two indigenous varietals, while Greece contributed a white and a red wine.
A spokesperson from the World's Best Sommeliers' Selection noted, "This year's list reflects the incredible diversity of the global wine landscape—from esteemed classics to bold new voices. It remains a reliable benchmark for hospitality professionals, and we take pride in uniting the world's best sommeliers to define the future of wine."
This selection of wines not only signifies the excellence found in different terroirs but also the creativity and innovation driving the wine industry forward. The full list of the World's Best Sommeliers' Selection 2026 is available on their official media center, further inspiring wine enthusiasts and collectors alike to explore the latest in fine wines.
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