Most Popular Wines in the U.S.: Top Picks and Trends for American Wine Lovers
Wine is a favorite drink for many people. Whether you are looking for the best cheap red wine or one of the best wines to drink, there is something for everyone. Some love a glass of 19 Crimes wine or a classic Merlot. You can also explore many top wine brands. This article will show you popular choices across the U.S. and help you discover new favorites.
In this article, we look at the most popular wines in America. We use data from the International Wine and Spirits Record (IWSR) and Euromonitor International. Let's uncork the story behind America's favorite wines, learn how preferences vary by region, and discover what influences wine-buying decisions.
A Toast to America's Wine Culture
Across the United States, wine is more than just a drink—it's a part of everyday life. From the bustling urban wine bars of New York and Chicago to the quaint vineyards scattered across Virginia and California, wine offers an accessible luxury.
IWSR US Wine Landscape 2024 report shows that 73% of Americans enjoy a glass of wine at least once a week. This widespread love for wine is reflected in both the types of wine people search for online and the choices they make when they shop for a bottle.
If you want to know more about this trend, check out our series article on “How COVID change the way we buy wine”
What Americans Search For in Their Favorite Wines
Wine lovers in the U.S. crave a unique experience and authenticity when choosing a bottle. With wine prices on the rise, many consumers focus on getting the best quality within their budget. Nearly 80% of participants in an IWSR survey said they always look for the best quality wines they can afford. One-third of respondents even mentioned buying a bottle of Barefoot in the past three months, while brands like Yellow Tail and 19 Crimes rank high on many shopping lists.
Another way to understand wine popularity is by checking what people search for online. Google Trends data shows that varietals such as Merlot, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Cabernet Sauvignon often top the charts. These wines are popular for a simple reason—their versatility. Whether paired with a hearty meal or enjoyed on their own, they fit into many lifestyles and dining experiences.
What's Filling Up Our Glasses?
Since 2019, regular wine drinkers have broadened their tastes, exploring new varietals alongside their favorites. According to IWSR, while Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc have grown even more popular, thanks to their affordability and wide recognition, red wines like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir continue to hold strong positions. The overall picture remains steady, yet many enthusiasts are always open to trying new flavors and styles.
Champagne also makes a notable appearance, though it is typically saved for special occasions. Its role as a celebratory drink may limit its everyday appeal, which could explain why it doesn't dominate search trends despite its iconic status.
Insights from Regular Wine Drinkers
While online trends show us which wines are popular, surveys reveal what matters most when people choose wine. IWSR found that most Americans value wine for its taste. Regular wine drinkers prefer wines that are "smooth" and "easy to drink." They enjoy white wines that are crisp, fruity, and fresh and red wines that are full-bodied and rich.
Here are some key takeaways from the survey:
Top Attributes for White Wine:
- Smooth: 43%
- Easy to drink: 42%
- Crisp: 39%
- Fruity: 36%
- Fresh: 35%
Top Attributes for Red Wine:
- Smooth: 41%
- Easy to drink: 39%
- Full-bodied: 37%
- Rich: 32%
- Fruity: 31%
These results show that people love wine for its taste and cultural value. However, cost and availability also influence many choices made by American consumers.
Wine and Lifestyle: Pairing Culture with a Glass of Wine
Wine is more than just a beverage—it's part of a lifestyle. According to IWSR, many people choose wine for a relaxing drink or to enjoy with informal meals at home. The top two reasons for buying wine to enjoy off-premises are to unwind at the end of the day and to pair wine with a casual meal. Sales for formal or special occasions have either stabilized or declined compared to last year.
The on-premise market, however, faces challenges. Reduced wine lists, increased price awareness, and fewer outlets due to closures are making it harder for consumers to experience wine outside the home. Fine dining, a key channel for wine sales, has seen a notable decline in restaurant numbers, limiting opportunities for wine interactions.
Despite these challenges, regular wine drinkers have increased their purchases since before the pandemic, thanks in part to strong participation from Millennials. While the frequency of on-premise consumption has risen overall compared to pre-pandemic levels, it has either stalled or decreased in the past year. For those dining out, the main reasons for choosing wine remain the same: to enjoy a relaxing drink at the end of the day and to complement an informal meal at a pub, bar, or restaurant.
What's Behind the Popularity?
Several factors drive wine trends in the U.S., and they help explain why certain brands are household names.
Seasonality
As the weather cools, our drink preferences change. Warmer, fruity wines become more appealing. For example, many enjoy the sweet and smooth taste of White Zinfandel or Pink Moscato on chilly evenings. Its comforting flavor makes it a favorite during the cooler months.
Affordability
Many wine drinkers look for bottles under $20, so affordable options naturally become popular. A great example is 19 Crimes Cabernet Sauvignon, which delivers quality without a high price tag. This budget-friendly appeal allows more people to explore different wines without overspending.
Versatility
Wines that pair well with a variety of foods work in both casual and formal settings. Yellow Tail Merlot is a standout choice. It pairs wonderfully with everything from light salads to rich desserts, making it a versatile option for many occasions.
Cultural Influences
Regional tastes, smart marketing, and local production all play a role in wine popularity. In California, the sheer volume of production helps boost certain varietals. Chardonnay, for instance, benefits from both its availability and high-quality improvements, making it a popular choice among many wine enthusiasts.
Together, these factors—seasonality, affordability, versatility, and cultural influences—explain why wines like 19 Crimes Cabernet Sauvignon and Yellow Tail Merlot have become some of the most popular wine brands in the U.S.
Enjoying Wine the Vinovoss Way
At Vinovoss, we understand that wine is more than just a beverage—it's an experience. Our passion for wine drives us to keep you updated on the latest trends and to celebrate the diversity of wine choices available across the United States. From highlighting regional specialties to sharing insights into consumer preferences, our goal is to help you find the perfect bottle for every occasion.
So whether you're exploring a new wine bar in your neighborhood or planning a vineyard tour in one of America's famed wine regions, take a moment to appreciate the journey that each bottle represents. After all, every glass of wine tells a story of heritage, of craftsmanship, and of the evolving tastes that unite us as a nation.
In conclusion, the popularity of wines in the U.S. is a fascinating blend of tradition, innovation, and personal preference. From the sweet notes of Moscato to the fruity character of Merlot, the diverse landscape of American wine mirrors the diversity of its people. By understanding what makes certain wines popular—whether it's their affordability, versatility, or simply the seasonal charm they carry—we can all enjoy a richer, more informed wine-drinking experience.
Cheers to discovering, tasting, and enjoying the most popular wines in the U.S.!
Krystal Wen
