About the Wine Enthusiast Rating System
All tastings reported in the Buying Guide are performed blind. Typically, products are tasted in peer-group flights of from 5-8 samples. Reviewers may know general information about a flight to provide context—vintage, variety or appellation—but never the producer or retail price of any given selection. When possible, products considered flawed or uncustomary are retasted.

How Wine Enthusiast Rates
All tastings reported in the Buying Guide are performed blind. Typically, products are tasted in peer-group flights of from 5-8 samples. Reviewers may know general information about a flight to provide context—vintage, variety or appellation—but never the producer or retail price of any given selection. When possible, products considered flawed or uncustomary are retasted.
About The Scores
*Products deemed unacceptable (receving a rating below 80 points) are not reviewed.
98-100
Classic
The Pinnacle of quality
94-97
Superb
A great achievement
90-93
Excellent
Highly recommended
87-89
Very Good
Often good value; well recommended
83-86
Good
Suitable for everyday consumption, often good value
80-82
Acceptable
Can be employed
Wines Rated By Wine Enthusiast
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2014 History Otis Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley
Regular price $100.00Regular priceUnit price / per -
2015 Rarecat Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
Regular price $155.00Regular priceUnit price / per -
2016 Chateau Hostens-Picant Grangeneuve Sainte-Foy Côtes de Bordeaux France
Regular price $20.00Regular priceUnit price / per -
2017 Crown Point Estate Selection Red Happy Canyon Santa Ynez Valley
Regular price $149.00Regular priceUnit price / perSold out
Wine Enthusiast History
Wine Enthusiast was founded in 1979 by Adam Strum, originally as a mail-order catalog company that offered wine accessories. At a time when the American wine culture was still in its early stages, Wine Enthusiast sought to provide consumers with high-quality products that complemented their wine-drinking experience, including glassware, decanters, wine storage solutions, and wine-themed gifts.
As the business grew, it expanded its reach beyond mail-order catalogs and launched Wine Enthusiast Magazine in 1988. The magazine aimed to educate readers about wine, making it more approachable for enthusiasts at all levels. It featured wine reviews, ratings, industry news, and editorial content focused on wine regions, wineries, and trends. This positioned Wine Enthusiast as a key player in the wine industry, helping to shape wine culture and influence purchasing decisions among consumers.
The introduction of the magazine also marked a shift for the company, moving from merely a product retailer to a source of authoritative wine journalism. Over the years, Wine Enthusiast Magazine has become known for its comprehensive wine ratings and reviews, offering evaluations from a global team of wine experts and critics. The magazine covers a wide range of topics, including food pairings, travel destinations, and profiles of influential figures in the wine world.
Throughout the 2000s, Wine Enthusiast continued to diversify its offerings. It expanded its online presence, making it easier for customers to access wine accessories and information. The company also became a resource for cellar design and storage solutions, offering custom-built wine cellars for private and commercial clients.
In addition to the magazine and retail business, Wine Enthusiast organizes events and awards, such as the annual Wine Star Awards, which recognize outstanding achievements across the wine, spirits, and beer industries. These awards have gained prestige, celebrating innovation, sustainability, and leadership within the beverage industry.
Today, Wine Enthusiast remains a multi-faceted company, combining retail, publishing, and events. It continues to serve as a trusted source for wine enthusiasts, providing expert recommendations and insights while supporting the growth of wine culture worldwide.
Explore Other Rating Organizations
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Wine Enthusiast
Learn MoreAll tastings reported in the Buying Guide are performed blind. Typically, products are tasted in peer-group flights of from 5-8 samples. Reviewers may know general information about a flight to provide context—vintage, variety or appellation—but never the producer or retail price of any given selection. When possible, products considered flawed or uncustomary are retasted.
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Wine Enthusiast
Learn MoreAll tastings reported in the Buying Guide are performed blind. Typically, products are tasted in peer-group flights of from 5-8 samples. Reviewers may know general information about a flight to provide context—vintage, variety or appellation—but never the producer or retail price of any given selection. When possible, products considered flawed or uncustomary are retasted.