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 it Works

"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"