If you’ve become addicted to the daily NYT Strands puzzle, you’re in good company. This engaging word game from the New York Times blends elements of a word search with inventive, theme-driven twists.
26 January 2026 NYT Strands Theme: “Grape Expectations”
26 January 2026 NYT Strands Hints
- Consider various types of wine you might encounter at a restaurant or wine shop.
- The puzzle features specific grape varieties rather than wine regions.
- Keep an eye out for longer words running diagonally across the grid.
- A combination of red and white wines appears in this puzzle.
- The spangram ties the word list together with a term you’d associate with ordering or purchasing wine.
26 January 2026 NYT Strands Answers
- Malbec
- Merlot
- Shiraz
- Zinfandel
- Chardonnay
Spangram
By the Bottle
This spangram encapsulates how these wines are typically ordered or purchased, effectively linking all the grape varieties with a familiar wine-related phrase.
How Strands Works
Strands is a daily word search puzzle with an exciting twist:
- A theme is provided.
- The grid is filled with hidden words related to that theme.
- Words can appear in any direction, including diagonally.
- Once you find all the themed words, you’ve completed the puzzle!
Typically, each puzzle contains around 6–8 themed words.
How to Get and Use Hints
Hints are conveniently integrated into Strands, making them invaluable if you find yourself stuck:
- To earn a hint, identify any non-theme word of at least four letters within the grid.
- Each valid extra word you find grants you one hint.
- When you utilize a hint, one of the theme words will automatically be revealed, helping you progress.
Pro tip: Use your hints strategically rather than wasting them. Sometimes, revealing just one word can unlock the entire board.
Tips to Become a NYT Strands Pro
- Start with obvious words. Look for clear themes first.
- Scan diagonals early. Strands often hides words at angles.
- Build around found words. Once you discover one word, the remaining letters might hint at the next.
- Use hints wisely. Collect them by spotting extra words, and save them for challenging moments.
- Think about synonyms. The theme clue can be broader than it appears — expand your thinking.
Final Thoughts
The 26 January 2026 NYT Strands puzzle felt relatively easy and enjoyable, especially for those familiar with wine terminology. The theme was light-hearted, witty, and engaging. How many words did you manage to find before you reached for a hint? 🍷
