The ever-changing landscape of wine trends continues to evolve with each passing season. As fall approaches, sommeliers and wine experts are making predictions on what we can expect to see in wine glasses across the country. From the return to comfort and familiarity to the exploration of lesser-known regions, the wine world is full of exciting possibilities.

John Maraffa, the beverage manager of Morton’s The Steakhouse, believes that diners will seek out wines that they know and love in order to ensure a satisfying dining experience. Whether it’s the bubbles of Champagne, the bold Cabernet from Napa Valley, or the grassy Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand, guests will celebrate with the wines that bring them joy.

Alex Ring from the Michelin-starred Sepia + Proxi in Chicago has noticed a trend of going back to basics. From Champagne to Sancerre to California Cabernet, customers are gravitating towards familiar options. People are willing to splurge on a glass of Willamette Valley Pinot Noir over a lesser-known alternative, embracing comfort and familiarity.

Bryce Faucheaux, an Advanced Sommelier at Justine, has observed a shift in wine preferences. While red Bordeaux and domestic options were once popular, guests are now stepping out of their comfort zone and exploring new French regions. Lesser-known regions in the Loire Valley and Burgundy are now receiving more attention as customers seek to maximize both quality and quantity.

Adam Diaz, the wine director at The Press Room in Chicago, has noticed the rise of two new wine regions: Portugal’s Douro Valley and Sicily. The Douro Valley is no longer just known for Port wines; it now offers exceptional reds and whites with stunning vineyard views. Sicilian wines provide a taste of the Mediterranean with their rich history and unique grape varieties.

Nicole Haarklau, the corporate director of food and beverage for Coury Hospitality, believes that Oregon and Washington wines are emerging as the darlings of the wine world. Oregon’s Willamette Valley produces world-class Pinot Noirs known for their intricate complexities and delicate fruit profiles. Meanwhile, Washington State offers a diverse landscape that nurtures outstanding Cabernet Sauvignons and Merlots with bold flavors and remarkable aging potential.

Tonya Pitts, sommelier and wine director at One Market, asserts that Cabernet Sauvignon is currently one of the most popular wine categories. While Napa Valley reigns supreme, there are other regions gaining recognition. Sonoma, Lodi, and Paso Robles are the next great discovery regions, with wines that consistently exceed expectations. Especially in Lodi, which is falsely associated only with Zinfandel production, there are beautiful old vine selections of Cabernet Sauvignon to be explored.

Lee Blaustone from Culaccino in Franklin, Tennessee, predicts a trend of familiar grapes in non-traditional regional specifications. Guests may choose blends of Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc from Piedmont, Italy, instead of the more traditional California or New Zealand picks. Additionally, a Super Tuscan composed of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah, without a drop of Sangiovese, can offer a unique twist on beloved regions and grapes.

As for sparkling wines, sommelier Bertil Jean-Chronberg from Bonde Fine Wine Shop emphasizes the decline in Pet-Nat wines. This is not due to market saturation, but rather consumers’ frustration with inconsistent quality and high prices. Instead, consumers are turning to sparkling wines with a more classic production method, such as Champagne or Charmat-method bubbles, which offer a greater guarantee of quality for the price. The expectation is for this trend to continue unless ancestral method wines improve their consistency.

Scott Stroemer, the wine director of Galit, believes that wines from the ancient world, such as Armenia, Turkey, and Georgia, will step into the spotlight. People are embracing the past and discovering the unique flavors and history that these regions have to offer.

As fall approaches, wine lovers have a multitude of options to explore. Whether it’s revisiting old favorites, venturing into new regions, or embracing ancient traditions, the world of wine is ever-changing and full of exciting adventures. Cheers to discovering new tastes and enjoying the changing trends of the wine world.

Buckle up, wine enthusiasts! Today we are going on a journey to explore some of the lesser-known wine regions and their unique offerings. But hey, be prepared for a twist in the tale!

First stop, Iran. Yes, you read that right. While winemaking is banned within the country, there are a couple of daring winemakers who have taken the plunge and are working with grapes from vineyards in Iran. The catch? The winemaking actually happens outside of the country. Talk about breaking the rules in pursuit of a sweet nectar!

Next on our adventure, we find ourselves in the enchanting country of Georgia. Now, you might think that “new” trends are reserved for young, fresh-faced concepts, but Georgia begs to differ. Despite boasting one of the oldest winemaking regions in the world, it has managed to create a buzz around its amber wines. And guess what? This buzz has escalated into a full-fledged consumer category. The once indifferent wine enthusiasts are now embracing these skin contact white wines with open arms, replacing their beloved rosé with a darker, more tannic hue.

Hold on tight, folks, because we are now zooming over to Vermont. Yes, Vermont! Not known for its wine industry, this region has been quietly undergoing a winemaking revolution. Embracing biodynamic farming principles and championing natural or minimal intervention winemaking, Vermont has become a haven for wine innovators. Leading the charge is Master Sommelier David Keck, who has planted his own vineyards and started his very own winery. And he’s not alone. Wine industry stars are flocking to Vermont, attracted by the incredible work being done with hybrids and the promising future that awaits.

So there you have it, folks. A whirlwind tour of some of the most unlikely yet exciting wine regions. These unsung heroes are rewriting the narrative of winemaking, defying conventions, and leaving their mark on the industry. So, the next time you pour yourself a glass, think beyond the traditional names and give these unconventional regions and their exceptional wines a chance to dance on your palate. Cheers to the rebels and the daring pioneers who push the boundaries of what wine can be!