Decanter will reveal its Top 50 US Wines of 2026 beginning 16 November, publishing 10 wines a day over five days. The final 10 will be announced on 20 November.
Every wine on the list scored at least 95 points in Decanter tastings during the previous 12 months. The selections highlight the breadth of American wine, from notable vintages and emerging regions to standout vineyards, winemaking and vineyard practices, and the people behind them.
Each wine will have a full review, score and tasting note on Decanter.com. After the countdown, Decanter Premium members can also access a guide to 200 additional highly rated wines, featuring 2023 Napa Cabernet, Oregon Pinot Noir, West Coast Chardonnay and sparkling wine, as well as holiday-value picks.
The list aims to help wine lovers discover producers and regions to explore now or follow in future vintages. Some wines are available only through winery mailing lists or clubs, while others have wider distribution or can be tasted at wineries.
Readers in the US and UK can enter a giveaway connected with the list. The prize includes tickets to a 2027 Decanter Fine Wine Encounter and a one-year magazine and Decanter Premium subscription; two runners-up will receive a year of Premium access.
For countdown reminders, readers can sign up for the Decanter Daily newsletter or the Decanter North America newsletter.