I hope that Tim and others develop such a standard for the star rating system. If they did I would use it. But until then, given the wide variety of interpretations on how folks would dole out stars, I’m going to stick to quality/price ratio and long, wordy reviews because that’s what me and my readers seem to want. And, incidentally, they do buy wine based on these reviews, if the outclicks to wine-searcher, and various winery stores are any indication.

I thought your post was extremely moving Jeff. It’s how I feel as well, I just don’t see any way our industry could function without ratings anymore (sadly). FWIW I’ll never give a wine a score on this blog.

I guess I’m just hard hearted (and scared about what might happen if we don’t sell enough wine). But I think you have to deal with market realities when you’re just starting out. When we have some cash in the bank and a relatively steady flow of revenue, I’m sure I’ll start to fuss over the artistic stuff much more.

Mike,

I’m entirely sympathetic to the idea that wine shouldn’t be rated, but that’s just not the world we live in. I’m also aware that our style of Pinot isn’t likely to garner a huge score from the typical gatekeepers. But since I know this, I can plan around it, hone my market focus and not be blown out of the water if/when I get an 89 (or less) instead of a 92.

There is certainly a business reason to decry relying on one or two people’s ratings, but I don’t see any business rationale in rallying to eliminate ratings in general. They’re a powerful force in the market, and tell a complex story simply. As you say, people buy more wine because of them because there is just too much wine out there.

Thanks for the comments!

The problem is that with over 10,000 new wines each year, people are looking for guidance. And when wine writing gets too geeky, people opt for a number.