Talent Takes the Lead in 2026 —Insights from the Silicon Valley Bank Wine Industry Report
Last week with the release of the annual State of the U.S. Wine Industry Report from Silicon Valley Bank presented a reality check for our industry: the U.S. wine market continues through a multi-year demand correction, with total sales down again in 2025 and a full recovery unlikely until later this decade.
But here’s the key takeaway for wineries in: the businesses that are thriving right now aren’t waiting for better numbers — they’re investing in people who can help them adapt, innovate, and lead.
According to the 2026 SVB report:
Total U.S. wine sales in 2025 declined again, with about 329 million cases sold and ~$74.3 billion in value — both down from 2024.
The overall industry is expected to bottom out around 2027–2028 before gradually growing again.
Importantly, wineries that are growing aren’t waiting for the market to recover — they’re changing how they engage consumers, manage inventory, and define their value.
In other words, success isn’t driven by passive hope — it’s driven by active leadership and strategic talent.
The SVB report isn’t just a market snapshot — it’s a call to action. Wineries that succeed won’t be the ones hoping for a recovery; they’ll be the ones building teams capable of navigating change now.
At Intertwine, we partner with companies, not just to fill roles, but to identify the people who will strengthen your business when it matters most — leaders who understand the nuances of the wine industry, excel in relationship-driven environments and drive strategic outcomes.
If your 2026 plans include building a team that’s resilient, adaptive, and growth-oriented — let’s talk.