Have you ever seen a bottle of wine with a score of 90 or more on a store shelf and wondered about its significance? This article will delve into the world of wine scoring systems, revealing their inner workings, the influential critics behind them, and discussing both their benefits and limitations. Let’s start by exploring the history of wine scoring systems and their role in the wine industry.
The Emergence of Wine Scoring Systems
Evaluating and rating wines has long been practised, but using a numerical system for wine assessment is relatively new. In the 20th century, with growing interest in wines in the United States and a plethora of wine options from around the world, “wine critics” became prominent. These critics focused on evaluating and recommending wines, simplifying the selection process for less experienced consumers.
A notable milestone in popularising the numerical wine rating system was achieved by American critic Robert Parker in the 1970s. Parker’s method, rating wines on a 50 to 100 scale, resembled the American A-to-F grading system. Wines scoring 80 or higher were deemed “above average” or “good.” This system, used in publications like “The Wine Advocate,” allowed readers to quickly assess wine quality numerically.
How Does the Wine Scoring System Work?
The wine rating system involves assigning a score, typically by a critic, to summarise the evaluation of a wine. These scores are subjective and can differ among critics, each with their unique rating system and criteria. Most scoring systems share common guidelines.
Scores reflect not only the taste but also production quality and alignment with the style of the wine’s region of origin. Wines are evaluated based on their typicity, indicating how well they represent their regional style.
The 100-Point Scoring Scale
The 100-point scale is prevalent in wine scoring. Interpretations are as follows:
- 50-59: Unacceptable, unsuitable for consumption.
- 60-69: Below average, not recommended but drinkable.
- 70-79: Average.
- 80-84: Above average to “good.”
- 85-89: “Good” to “very good.”
- 90-94: “Superior” to “exceptional.”
- 95-100: Iconic or “classic.”
- Scores below 80 often remain unpublished.
Scores might come from a single critic’s tasting experience or be an average of multiple critics’ evaluations of the same wine. Many critics also provide detailed wine descriptions, offering insight beyond the numerical score.
Advantages and limitations of Wine Scoring Systems
Wine scoring systems offer significant benefits to both consumers and the wine industry. These systems enable consumers to quickly and easily identify high-quality wines, a feature particularly valuable for those who may not have extensive knowledge of wines. For sellers and distributors, the scores serve as a validation of quality, eliminating the need for them to taste every wine they sell. This is especially advantageous for sellers managing large inventories. Exceptionally rated wines often experience price increases, which has led to the creation of a wine investment market, offering new financial opportunities.
These scoring systems have also played a crucial role in expanding wine markets globally. High-quality wines have become more accessible to a broader audience, which has been beneficial for both consumers and producers. The international reach of these scoring systems has opened up new markets and brought diverse wine offerings to consumers worldwide.
However, wine scoring systems are not without their limitations and have faced criticism and challenges. One of the most significant issues is the inconsistency in critics’ opinions, particularly for wines scoring above 90. This inconsistency can lead to consumer confusion, as it’s difficult to discern which score or critic to trust. Additionally, wines from different regions that receive the same score can be vastly different in taste and quality, which is not always apparent from the score alone.
Another concern is the exclusion of many wines, especially those from small producers, from these rating systems. This exclusion can limit consumer exposure to a variety of wines and may impact the market presence of smaller wineries. Lastly, there is a growing concern that wineries may feel pressured to produce wines in styles that are more likely to receive high scores. This pressure could lead to a homogenization of wine styles within a region, reducing the diversity and uniqueness that make wines from different regions special.
Prominent Wine Critics
Several critics and publications have been key in popularising wine scoring:
- The Wine Advocate: Founded by Robert Parker, known for blind tastings and integrity in reviews.
- Jancis Robinson: Renowned for her vast experience and impartial evaluations.
- James Suckling: Focuses on wines scoring 90 or higher, assessing immediate pleasure and ageing potential.
- Wine Spectator: Assigns scores based on regional editors’ evaluations, all conducted blindly.
Three Tips for Utilising Wine Scores Wisely
While useful, it’s important to use wine scores judiciously:
- Know the Source: Consider the reviewer’s tendencies when selecting wines based on scores.
- Consider the Region: Take into account a wine’s region of origin and its influence on style and flavour.
- Develop Your Palate: Experiment with various wines to discover what suits your taste.
Vinesia offers a diverse range of fine wines from around the world, catering to different tastes. They strive to assist you in finding the perfect wine for every occasion, appreciating the unique experiences each wine offers.
Their wine portfolio includes a selection of highly rated wines from Wine Spectator, such as Brunello di Montalcino “Piaggione” 2013 by Salicutti, scoring 96/100, and Corton Grand Cru 2015 from Domaine Chandon de Briailles, with a rating of 94 points. Additionally, the portfolio features Château Mouton Rothschild 2017 and Opus One 2019, rated 98/100 and 99/100 points, respectively. From Jancis Robinson, another notable choice for investment is Barbaresco “Currá” 2016 by Sottimano, rated 17.5/20 points.
