World's Best Sommeliers' Selection 2026: A Global Showcase of Wine Excellence
The World's Best Sommeliers' Selection for 2026 has unveiled an impressive catalog of 115 exquisite wines, evaluated by a distinguished panel of sommeliers from 17 countries across six continents. Held in London, this global event celebrates the finest wines, showcasing not only established classics but also the innovative newcomers that are making waves in the wine industry today.
The selection process, led by Kristell Monot, who is the President of the event and Head Sommelier at Mugaritz, involved rigorous tasting and discussion among the panel members, which were drawn from the elite network of The World's 50 Best Restaurants. This thorough evaluation serves as a vital reference point for wine professionals and enthusiasts alike, helping them discover high-quality options that reflect the diverse and dynamic landscape of the global wine market.
Leading the Pack
Italy continues to impress, contributing 20 wines to the selection, predominantly red. Among these, Nebbiolo stands out, showcasing four iconic Barolo and Barbaresco wines that highlight the grape's prestigious status. New styles are also gaining traction, with a notable Grenache from Clara Marcelli and a unique Merlot from Tenuta Del Paguro, which is aged on the Adriatic seabed. Italian wines from regions like Sicily are increasingly recognized for their organic production methods, with Arianna Occhipinti featuring three times on the list, evident of the region's growing acclaim.
Portugal shines brightly as the second-highest contributor with 18 wines recognized for their distinct styles, spanning red, white, and fortified categories. Notable entries included Dão’s signature white variety, showcased by Quinta dos Carvalhais and the richly structured whites from Quinta do Vallado that highlight the Douro’s indigenous grapes. Its longstanding reputation for fortified wines was reaffirmed by commendable selections of Ports and Madeiras.
The USA also made a formidable impression, securing 17 wines primarily from California, Oregon, and Texas. California’s representation ranged from six exquisite reds to a white, highlighting the impressive variety and quality that continues to come from this region. Texas’s evolving wine industry was noted with several entries across styles, depicting the state's burgeoning reputation in the wine sector. Meanwhile, Oregon’s cool climate was showcased through organic producers like Lingua Franca, which contributed Burgundian-style Chardonnay and Pinot Noir to the esteemed selection.
Celebrating Spain and Argentina
Spain's contributions were notable, with seven red wine entries from prestigious regions like Ribera del Duero and Rioja. The selection is complemented by two sherries, reinforcing the country's rich tradition in fortified wines. Furthermore, the inclusion of two whites reflects a contemporary approach to winemaking, with innovative varietal combinations gaining favor.
Argentina secured 12 spots featuring primarily its celebrated Malbecs, illustrating the nation’s reputation for this powerful varietal. The lineup also included standout white varietals from Mendoza, proving the diversity of Argentina's winemaking abilities beyond its famed reds.
Emerging Regions
As the global spotlight shifts towards South America, the 2026 selection proudly featured 26 wines from the continent, up from 23 in 2025. Uruguay stood out by earning five spots for wines made from both traditional and lesser-known varietals, while Brazil’s single entry showcased a blend from its historic coffee-producing regions. Chile displayed dominance primarily in the red category with eight impressive wines, underscoring its significance in the global wine narrative.
Final Words
Kristell Monot reflects on the significance of the selection, noting how the diverse backgrounds and perspectives of the participating sommeliers shape the collective judgment, ultimately creating a benchmark for quality and innovation in wine. The World's Best Sommeliers' Selection not only highlights extraordinary wines from a global repertoire but also serves as a vital tool for industry professionals seeking to curate exceptional lists that resonate with modern palates.
For those interested in exploring the entire list of selections, expert notes, and pairing recommendations, further details can be accessed online. Producers seeking to participate in the 2027 selection can prepare to register starting February 25, 2026. Stay tuned for continuous updates on how the wine world evolves in the exciting years ahead.
The selection process, led by Kristell Monot, who is the President of the event and Head Sommelier at Mugaritz, involved rigorous tasting and discussion among the panel members, which were drawn from the elite network of The World's 50 Best Restaurants. This thorough evaluation serves as a vital reference point for wine professionals and enthusiasts alike, helping them discover high-quality options that reflect the diverse and dynamic landscape of the global wine market.
Leading the Pack
Italy continues to impress, contributing 20 wines to the selection, predominantly red. Among these, Nebbiolo stands out, showcasing four iconic Barolo and Barbaresco wines that highlight the grape's prestigious status. New styles are also gaining traction, with a notable Grenache from Clara Marcelli and a unique Merlot from Tenuta Del Paguro, which is aged on the Adriatic seabed. Italian wines from regions like Sicily are increasingly recognized for their organic production methods, with Arianna Occhipinti featuring three times on the list, evident of the region's growing acclaim.
Portugal shines brightly as the second-highest contributor with 18 wines recognized for their distinct styles, spanning red, white, and fortified categories. Notable entries included Dão’s signature white variety, showcased by Quinta dos Carvalhais and the richly structured whites from Quinta do Vallado that highlight the Douro’s indigenous grapes. Its longstanding reputation for fortified wines was reaffirmed by commendable selections of Ports and Madeiras.
The USA also made a formidable impression, securing 17 wines primarily from California, Oregon, and Texas. California’s representation ranged from six exquisite reds to a white, highlighting the impressive variety and quality that continues to come from this region. Texas’s evolving wine industry was noted with several entries across styles, depicting the state's burgeoning reputation in the wine sector. Meanwhile, Oregon’s cool climate was showcased through organic producers like Lingua Franca, which contributed Burgundian-style Chardonnay and Pinot Noir to the esteemed selection.
Celebrating Spain and Argentina
Spain's contributions were notable, with seven red wine entries from prestigious regions like Ribera del Duero and Rioja. The selection is complemented by two sherries, reinforcing the country's rich tradition in fortified wines. Furthermore, the inclusion of two whites reflects a contemporary approach to winemaking, with innovative varietal combinations gaining favor.
Argentina secured 12 spots featuring primarily its celebrated Malbecs, illustrating the nation’s reputation for this powerful varietal. The lineup also included standout white varietals from Mendoza, proving the diversity of Argentina's winemaking abilities beyond its famed reds.
Emerging Regions
As the global spotlight shifts towards South America, the 2026 selection proudly featured 26 wines from the continent, up from 23 in 2025. Uruguay stood out by earning five spots for wines made from both traditional and lesser-known varietals, while Brazil’s single entry showcased a blend from its historic coffee-producing regions. Chile displayed dominance primarily in the red category with eight impressive wines, underscoring its significance in the global wine narrative.
Final Words
Kristell Monot reflects on the significance of the selection, noting how the diverse backgrounds and perspectives of the participating sommeliers shape the collective judgment, ultimately creating a benchmark for quality and innovation in wine. The World's Best Sommeliers' Selection not only highlights extraordinary wines from a global repertoire but also serves as a vital tool for industry professionals seeking to curate exceptional lists that resonate with modern palates.
For those interested in exploring the entire list of selections, expert notes, and pairing recommendations, further details can be accessed online. Producers seeking to participate in the 2027 selection can prepare to register starting February 25, 2026. Stay tuned for continuous updates on how the wine world evolves in the exciting years ahead.
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