The 100-point wine rating system has become the benchmark of quality wine in the industry. But where did it come from? And who decides the ratings? In order to make the most out of this rating system let us give you a bit of background information.
Who Made the 100-Point Rating System?
Robert M. Parker spent 10 years working as a lawyer before he made a huge career jump into wine writing in 1984. He started the Wine Advocate newsletter which steadily grew and soon became the standard reference for fine-wine drinkers in the United States.
By 2006 Parker had chosen a group of staff to cover the majority of the world’s wine regions and generate wine scores for each of the wines they sampled. Today, a 100-point Parker score can make or break a wine brand.
How are the Points Awarded?
Points are awarded by wine experts around the world. When wine publications like Wine Spectator rate wines over 90 points, they're looking for exceptional qualities that set them apart. Wines rated between 90 to 94 points are deemed "Outstanding," while those scoring 95 to 100 points are considered "Classic" and represent the pinnacle of quality.
Critics often describe these top-rated wines as showcasing the best of their varietals. For instance, Pinot Noir might display complexity, Cabernet Sauvignon depth, and Zinfandel boldness.
The 100 Point Scale
The scale starts at 50 points, and many critics, raters and connoisseurs will never bother to try a wine below 80.
- 50-59 point wines are ‘flawed and undrinkable’, definitely not recommended.
- 60-69 wines are flawed and not recommended, but are drinkable. End of the night bottles perhaps?
- 70-79 wines are flawed and taste average.
- 80-84 wines are ‘above average’ or even ‘good’
- 85-89 wines are ‘good’ or often ‘very good’
(Now we get to the important part).
- 90-94 wines are considered outstanding / exceptional
- 95-99 wines are the benchmark , or "classics".
- 100 is the pinnacle
Things to Bear in Mind
The average bell curve for wine is around the 87-89 point mark, so you may not find it easy to consistently drink 90+ point wine.
Also, you should be aware that wine critics start to bicker when it gets to the 90+ point wine range. Some critics prefer a 90+ point wine to be complex and bold, others prefer it to be complex at subtle. So the rating depends on their personal preferences but have one thing in common - their represent a high degree of quality.