Celebrating Global Excellence in Wine: World's Best Sommeliers' Selection 2026

World's Best Sommeliers' Selection 2026

On February 25, 2026, the third edition of the World's Best Sommeliers' Selection was unveiled, a prestigious event dedicated to celebrating global wine excellence. Prominent sommeliers from 17 different countries across six continents gathered to serve as judges, tasting a remarkable array of wines to create a definitive selection reflective of outstanding quality and diversity.

Led by Kristell Monot, president of the World's Best Sommeliers' Selection and head sommelier at Mugaritz, the tasting included a wide portfolio of 115 wines hailing from 16 countries. Italy notably topped the selection with 20 significant entries, featuring a blend of traditional and contemporary styles. The Nebbiolo grape stood out, showcasing its strength through acclaimed Barolo and Barbaresco, alongside modern interpretations such as a Grenache from Clara Marcelli and an underwater-aged Merlot from Tenuta Del Paguro.

Following Italy in prominence, Portugal secured its place with 18 wines included across various categories—white, red, and fortified. The Portuguese selection highlighted the country’s native grape varieties, with five whites emphasizing their indigenous characteristics, while the red entries came primarily from the Douro Valley. Additionally, three Ports and two Madeiras reaffirmed Portugal’s expertise in producing fortified wines, adding to the rich diversity of the selection.

The United States contributed 17 wines to the list, with California showing significant representation. The state offered six red wines and one white, with exemplary entries such as Sonoma’s Pinot Noir and Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon. Texas also made an impression with six wines, while Oregon's Lingua Franca gained recognition with its Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Spain followed closely with seven selected red wines from renowned regions including Ribera del Duero, Rioja, and Priorat. The country also celebrated its fortified offerings with two Sherries highlighting a renewed interest in these traditional wines, as well as a Cava from Pere Ventura that accentuated Spain’s sparkling wine status. Completing Spain's contributions were contemporary whites from Chivite and Bodegas Faustino.

Argentina continued to solidify its reputation in the wine world with 12 selections, mainly emphasizing the Malbec grape through seven robust reds. The selection also showcased a growing stylistic variety, with Rutini producing a Malbec, a Chardonnay, and a traditional method sparkling wine from the Uco Valley. Uruguay, Brazil, and Chile also made notable contributions, with Uruguay securing five spots and Brazil featuring a white blend.

In Europe, France led with its sparkling and rosé wines, while Germany showcased three impressive Rieslings. The Czech Republic’s Gurdau added to the diversity with three entries, including Riesling, Grüner Veltliner, and Sekt. Georgia introduced two traditional varietals and Greece contributed a red and a white.

In a statement reflecting the event’s significance, a spokesperson for the World's Best Sommeliers' Selection expressed pride in the robust diversity showcased this year. The events emphasize the contrast between revered classic wines and daring newcomers, marking the selection as a trusted reference point for industry professionals eager to define the future trajectory of wine. As the selection continues to serve as a vital connection to the evolving landscape of global viticulture, wine enthusiasts and professionals alike eagerly anticipate the release of this annual selection.

For more details, visit World's Best Sommeliers Selection Media Centre.

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