This Week in Wine: Highlights and Insights for January 5, 2026

Hello and welcome to my first weekly roundup of wine stories for 2026. This compilation includes interesting articles I’ve found online and typically share on my Flipboard magazine. However, for those who prefer another format, here’s a summary of the week’s highlights.

• The Problem with the Wine Business Is Business
  Jim Silver explores a specific style of business within the wine industry. Read more.

• The 3 Sake Trends on the Rise in 2026
  Jim Clarke discusses emerging sake trends this year. Read more.

• 2025: In Memoriam
  A tribute to notable figures in the wine industry who passed away last year. Read more.

• Changing the Rules: Hoopes Trial Could Upset Decades of Zoning & Winery Permits in Napa Valley
  An insightful piece on potential changes in Napa Valley’s zoning and winery permit regulations. Read more.

• Are Things Getting Better for the Wine Industry? SVB Says Yes — and No
  Jeff Siegel provides a nuanced perspective on the current state of the wine industry. Read more.

• Limits of Grapevine Stress: Distinguishing the Tolerable from the Intolerable
  A scientific exploration of grapevine stress levels. Read more.

• Shadows over northern California
  Jancis Robinson shares her reflections from a recent visit to northern California. Read more.

• Why Lodi is Forming a Winery Improvement District
  Exploring Lodi’s initiative to form a winery improvement district amidst similar moves across California. Read more.

• 2026: The Year to Change the Narrative about Wine
  Mike Veseth shares thoughts on how the wine narrative may shift this year. Read more.

• Drops of God Star Fleur Geffrier Reveals Insights on Season 2
  Insights into the upcoming season of the popular show. Read more.

• Why I’m skipping Dry January
  A public health scientist offers an editorial on the benefits of moderate drinking over total abstinence. Read more.

• It was a tough year for California wine—but here was the good news
  Reasons to remain optimistic about California’s wine future. Read more.

• Tired of Orange Wine? Try These Styles Instead
  Vogue provides alternatives for those seeking different wine experiences. Read more.

• The corkscrew began as a tool for muskets, not merlot
  A fascinating look at the history behind the corkscrew. Read more.

• Wine’s Moment of Truth: It’s Time to Reinvent
  A reflection on the wine industry’s need for evolution. Read more.

• 14 Sommeliers Share Their Green Flag Bottles for 2026
  Various sommeliers weigh in on their favorite wine selections for the year. Read more.

• Countries that Drink the Most Wine per Capita
  Portugal tops the list in wine consumption per capita. Read more.

• California wineries are experimenting with nonalcoholic tastings
  Innovative tasting experiences are emerging in California. Read more.

• What should wine lovers drink when they’re not drinking?
  Insights into alternative beverages from Jancis Robinson. Read more.

• This Wild Coastline Is Portugal’s Best-Kept Secret
  Exploring beautiful dining options along Portugal’s Vicentina coast. Read more.

• How the wine world is set to change in 2026
  Forecasts on upcoming changes in the wine landscape. Read more.

• Napa Contemplates Price Cuts
  An analysis on Napa wineries’ reluctance to reduce prices. Read more.

• Can We Save Wine from Wildfires?
  A deep dive into the challenges of protecting vineyards from wildfires. Read more.

• Why Napa’s first Black-owned winery embraced the spotlight
  The reopening of Brown Estate showcases its journey. Read more.

• The 10 Wines You Should Be Drinking in 2026
  Recommendations from Eric Asimov, highlighting underdog selections. Read more.

• 5 Bold Wine-World Predictions for 2026
  Anticipated predictions reflecting on the future of the industry. Read more.

• Italy Farewells Wine Giant
  A look at the life and legacy of Arnaldo Caprai. Read more.

This week’s roundup covers a diverse range of topics relevant to wine enthusiasts and industry professionals, reflecting the dynamic landscape of wine in 2026.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!