Have you also wondered what the point ratings for wines are about? Whether on bottle labels, in specialist magazines, or wine guides – the points play a central role in judging wines. They offer helpful orientation, but not all point systems are the same. In this post we introduce well-known wine ratings to you: Robert Parker, Falstaff, Wine Spectator, and James Suckling.
Robert Parker – Die Legende der 100-Punkte-Skala
Robert Parker revolutionized the wine world with his introduction of the 100-point system. His magazine, the Wine Advocate, sets standards in the international wine scene. How Parker’s rating system works:
- 96-100 points: An exceptional wine, world class.
- 90-95 points: Outstanding, a wine with special character.
- 80-89 points: Very good to good.
- Under 80 points: Average or below.
Parker places great importance on the balance, complexity, and aging potential of a wine. His ratings are especially influential in the USA, Asia, and France.
Falstaff – Die Expertise für den deutschsprachigen Raum
The Austrian magazine Falstaff is an institution in the DACH region and beyond. Besides wine, Falstaff also focuses on gastronomy, travel, and culinary arts. Falstaff’s 100-point scale:
- 95-100 points: A world-class wine.
- 90-94 points: Excellent, with regional and variety-typical character.
- 85-89 points: Very good, solid, and easy-drinking.
Falstaff offers excellent orientation for lovers of European wines, especially from Austria, Germany, and Italy.
Wine Spectator – Der globale Überblick
The American magazine Wine Spectator is among the leading publications in the wine world. Besides ratings, it offers extensive information on trends and wine regions worldwide. Wine Spectator’s rating scale:
- 95-100 points: Classic, an exceptional wine.
- 90-94 points: Excellent, especially characterful.
- 85-89 points: Highly recommended, easy-drinking.
Wine Spectator covers an impressive diversity of wine styles and offers an international view of the world of wine.
James Suckling – Genuss im Fokus
James Suckling, a former Wine Spectator critic, has made a name for himself with his concise ratings. He rates worldwide and places great importance on a wine’s drinkability. His point system:
- 95-100 points: Outstanding, with elegance and depth.
- 90-94 points: Excellent, ideal for moments of enjoyment.
- 85-89 points: Good, balanced, and accessible.
Suckling’s ratings are particularly interesting for lovers of Italian, French, and emerging wines such as from Argentina or Chile.
Wie helfen dir die Punktesysteme?
Point ratings provide valuable orientation – especially if you want to discover new wines. Still: your personal taste counts most. Try, compare, and find out what really excites you.
Tip: Use DWINER to discover wines with point ratings easily. With our app you scan wine labels and receive comprehensive info – from ratings via food pairings to all kinds of details about the winemaker.
To your health! Your DWINER Team
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