Wine Rating System - What It Is and How It Is Used

The wine rating system is a way for those who sell or produce wine to let the consumer know exactly what they are purchasing; however, in reality there is no true rating system as in universal because each person, magazine and others rate differently, much like the movies (such as one person liking the movie and another does not). Thus, the wine rating system is highly suggestive (Source: "Understanding the Wine Rating System" by David Cowley).

Most wine rating systems work on a number based scale, either one through twenty or fifty through one hundred with the later being the most widely used. The scale ratings are: 96-100 - extraordinary; 90-95 - outstanding; 80-89 - very good; 70-79 - average; 60-69 - below average; and 50-59 - unacceptable (Source: "Wine Rating System Explained" by Chrysta Lea Baker). The ratings are not only based on taste or flavor, but also the following is used when rating: (a) texture and aroma as this will be affected by the fruit that is used; and (b) the fermentation process. Quality processing will also affect the taste as well as everything else.

The taster will follow a certain formula when tasting the chosen wine. The way or process that occurs is: (1) The wine is and must be stored properly before it is tasted; (2) the wine is served between 70 and 72 degrees; (3) the wine is tasted just as it is poured; and (4) the wine is then left to breathe and tasted at different increments [such as twenty minutes] to see if there are any changes to the wine. Once the tasting is complete, the score is given.

But can one trust these wine ratings? In some people's views, they can be trusted just about as much as one can trust movie reviews. Simply put is everyone has different tastes. The best way to find what you really like it to create your own wine rating system. When creating your wine rating system, keep in mind the following factors when tasting - (a) sight [does it match what you are looking for in the wine]; (b) smell [is it spicy, fruit, deep, something to your liking]; (c) taste [do you enjoy the taste, How much and how so]; and (d) finish [is it smooth or have a harsh finish]. Keep track of your tasting so you know your likes and dislikes.

While the wine rating system is not perfect, it can be a good starting point to help you find the wine that you will enjoy and in combination with your personal wine tasting and rating system, the wines that you purchase will be more enjoyable.