BEHIND the NUMBERS

The Controversial Debate Over Wine Scores Explored

By Sommelier Matthew-Lorèn Lindsey @TheLordofWine

It'sno secret the world of wine is complex and intimidating, with countless nuances and subtleties to explore. With the birth of the wine rating system over 40 years ago, we were given a formalized approach to navigate and better understand the overwhelming concept of wine quality.

We've become comfortable turning to the experts for guidance; many hold their scores sacred and final. However, this topic among wine professionals ignites the flames of debate and can be as divisive as discussing politics or religion at the Thanksgiving table.

It is widely recognized that scoring wine is an exceedingly subjective matter primarily based on personal preferences. Consequently, whether wine scores hold any true merit has been a longstanding source of contention within the professional wine community.

Some swear by the objectivity of rating systems, arguing that they offer a reliable way to assess the quality of a wine. Others reject the idea of reducing the wine to a mere number, insisting that the true value of a bottle is found in the story and context behind it. As opinions clash and tempers flare, the debate over wine scores continues to divide the community of wine lovers and connoisseurs.

Let's explore both sides of the debate.