Some years in wine stand out not simply because of the bottles tasted, but because of the people encountered, places explored, and experiences that deepen our understanding of what makes great wine. For me, 2026 has been one of those years. From Sicily's volcanic slopes and the limestone plateau of Puglia to the rolling hills of Collio, historic estates in Valpolicella, the Alpine landscapes of Alto Adige, and Canada's Okanagan Valley and Niagara Peninsula, this year's travels have provided a fascinating perspective on the diversity and quality of wines being produced on both sides of the Atlantic. I've had the privilege of walking vineyards with winemakers, exploring historic cellars, tasting wines across several decades, and experiencing the culinary and cultural traditions that give these regions their identities. Along the way, I've encountered outstanding wines from internationally celebrated estates and smaller producers deserving of greater recognition. What connected many of my favourites wasn't necessarily power or concentration, but the ability to express a distinctive sense of place through balance, freshness, complexity, and thoughtful winemaking.