Probably the most influential wine rating points system was developed by Robert M. Parker. Many wine lovers have his books on their shelves.
I’ll be honest: I don’t really think much of dots and bottles covered in gold medals. Admittedly, awards and points reduce the risk of buying a horrible concoction.
Who is Robert M. Parker?
Robert M. Parker, Jr. was born in Baltimore, Maryland in 1947. His interest in wine began in 1967 when he spent a month visiting his girlfriend in Alsace (this girlfriend has now been his wife for almost 50 years).
Worldwide attention
Parker caused a worldwide sensation when he proclaimed the 1982 vintage from Bordeaux to be a superb year; in contrast to many other critics who were of the opinion that the year was too low in acidity and overripe. The debate as to whether 1982 is an age-resistant year continues to this day. However, the wine market seems to have spoken, as the prices of these wines are far higher than those of the following vintages.
How does the Robert Parker points system work?
Parker points are awarded according to the American school grading system, i.e. between 50 and 100 points. This is because Parker believes that the more common 20-point systems offer too little flexibility. His principle is also to underrate rather than overrate a wine. The individual ratings say:
– 50 to 69 points: poor to below average
– 70 to 79 points: average
– 80 to 89 points: above average to very good
– 90 to 95 points: excellent
– 96 to 100 points: exceptional
What does the plus sign mean?
A plus sign (+) marks wines that Parker believes will develop even better with ageing time.
What does the question mark mean?
Wines are marked with a question mark (?) if Parker is unsure whether these wines were found to be in the correct condition, would possibly develop slightly incorrectly or similar.
The impact of Parker’s rulings is enormous
Robert Parker’s taste has changed many things, especially the work of the winemakers. Producers respond to his critiques, often producing wines to his taste: dense, dark and dramatic. It is fascinating, but also worrying, how one man has managed to dictate his taste in viticulture. And for this he was even awarded the Legion of Honor by French President Jaques Chirac – although his judgment has ruined some small French wine producers.
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