About the Decanter Magazine Panel Rating System

Decanter: Leading global wine media (est. 1975, UK). 2.2M+ monthly reach (print, digital, social). Authoritative content, independent advice, events. Reaches 100+ countries.

How Decanter Magazine Panel Rates

All tastings conducted by Decanter follow a precise and structured approach to evaluating wines. Wines are assessed based on their quality, character, balance, and aging potential. The 100-point scale is used to ensure detailed and accurate evaluations of each wine’s overall profile. Wines rated 80 and above are considered for review.

About the Scores
Wines scoring below 80 points are generally not recommended.

95-100
Outstanding Quality
A truly exceptional wine with remarkable complexity, depth, and significant aging potential.

90-94
Excellent Quality
A highly recommended wine with great balance and character, offering a memorable experience.

85-89
Very Good to Excellent
Wines with distinctive features and high quality, though they may lack the depth or complexity of higher-rated wines.

80-84
Good Quality
Solid, enjoyable wines that show balance and craftsmanship, but may not stand out among the best.

70-79
Acceptable
Wines that lack complexity and balance, with some potential flaws but still drinkable.

Below 70
Significant Faults
Wines with noticeable flaws or disappointing qualities, not recommended.

Decanter Magazine Panel History

Decanter is widely recognized as the world’s leading wine media brand, reaching over 2.2 million people monthly through its print, digital, and social media channels. The platform connects with wine enthusiasts in over 100 countries, offering authoritative content, independent advice, and engaging wine-related events and competitions.

Founded in London in 1975, Decanter is the oldest consumer wine publication in the UK. It was established by Colin Parnell and Tony Lord, two individuals with vastly different backgrounds who saw a unique opportunity in the wine industry. Parnell, then editor of the trade magazine Wine & Spirit, teamed up with Lord, an Australian journalist and wine lover, to create a publication dedicated to bringing wine knowledge to the wider public. This visionary idea filled a gap in the market for accessible, informative wine content aimed at consumers.

Over the years, Decanter has built its reputation for offering high-quality wine journalism and insightful guidance for both seasoned collectors and casual wine lovers. The publication covers a broad range of topics, from detailed wine reviews to coverage of major wine regions and trends. Additionally, Decanter hosts prestigious events and awards that celebrate excellence in the wine world, further cementing its position as a leader in wine media. Today, it continues to inspire and educate a global audience, keeping wine lovers informed and connected to the evolving world of wine.

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