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

View all

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

  • Awarded Wines From Around The World

    Wine Enthusiast

    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.

    Learn More 
  • Awarded Wines From Around The World

    Wine Enthusiast

    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.

    Learn More