About the Guia Penin Rating System

Peñín: Leading Spanish wine authority via annual guide & events (Top Wines showroom). Multi-lingual guide for pros & enthusiasts. Key global promoter of Spanish wine culture.

How Guia Penin Rates

Guía Peñín’s rating system ranges from 50 to 100 points, with higher scores indicating superior quality.

95–100 Points: Exceptional
Wines in this range are considered outstanding, showcasing extraordinary qualities that set them apart within their category, vintage, and terroir. They exhibit complexity, elegance, and a distinctive character, reflecting excellence in grape variety, production, and aging processes.

90–94 Points: Excellent
These wines share attributes with exceptional wines but with slightly less pronounced profiles. They demonstrate high quality, offering notable complexity and balance that make them highly recommended choices.

80–89 Points: Very Good
Wines in this category exhibit characteristics typical of their variety or those acquired during vinification and/or aging. They possess special character and are well-regarded for their quality, providing a pleasurable drinking experience.

70–79 Points: Acceptable
These wines meet the standard expectations for their type and region of origin. While they may lack distinctive virtues, they are free from significant flaws and are considered satisfactory for casual consumption.

60–69 Points: Correct
Wines in this range are acceptable but may exhibit slight flaws that do not excessively impact the overall impression. They are drinkable but may not offer notable qualities.

50–59 Points: Not Recommended
Wines receiving these scores are deemed harmless to health but are not recommended due to taste issues. Factors such as oxidation, improper storage, or unpleasant fermentation odors may contribute to these lower scores.

This structured approach ensures that Guía Peñín provides a comprehensive and reliable assessment of wine quality, assisting consumers in making informed choices.

Guia Penin History

Peñín has significantly shaped the landscape of Spanish wine over the past three decades. The company stands as a leading force in promoting and disseminating Spanish wine culture both domestically and internationally. Anchored by a team of multidisciplinary professionals, Peñín is primarily recognized for its annual publication, the Peñín Guide to Spanish Wines, and its organization of professional wine events across the globe.

The Peñín Guide to Spanish Wines, available in Spanish, English, German, and Chinese, serves as a comprehensive resource for both amateurs and professionals seeking information on Spanish wines. Its origins trace back to 1990, when José Peñín, the company's honorary president, published the inaugural edition, "Vinos y Bodegas de España." This guide filled a crucial gap in wine information, providing consumers with essential data. Over time, it evolved into a definitive reference for Spanish wine, encompassing over 11,500 annual tastings. The company's evaluation extends beyond Spanish wines, including those from countries like Mexico, Argentina, and Chile, as well as spirits and vermouth.

Recognizing the need for direct interaction between producers and consumers, Peñín established the Top Wines from Spain tasting showroom in 2000. This initiative marked the inception of the company's events department, which now manages over fifteen annual activities. Peñín has thus solidified its position as a leading organizer of events dedicated to promoting Spanish wineries and wines on both national and international stages.

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