Anthony Gismondi explains what’s goes into the 100-point rating system for wines
Author of the article: Anthony Gismondi
Publishing date: May 07, 2021 • 1 day ago • 7 minute read • Photo by Andrey Elkin /Getty Images
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Two questions from regular readers Robert and Ben dovetail neatly into today’s column, one I’ve been thinking about writing for a while.
Robert reports that he and his wife don’t understand the 100-point rating system. “Virtually every wine is between 86 and 93 points, which seems to mean not much difference on the palate. And is a 90-point $35 Bordeaux style wine equivalent to a 90-point $65 (wine from) Bordeaux? Good question, Robert.
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These wines might just end up being served in the local cafe, or kept for family use. Does this matter? It depends on how much you like the stalwarts of the wine shelves. Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon dominate the wine lists and, while there are some fabulous wines made with those grapes, it is sometimes nice to have a change.
South African Grenache Blanc grapes on the vine.
Another advantage is that many of these local gems offer terrific value. Before M&S buyers came along, these wines would not escape from their regional surroundings. So these are definitely wines that have been found, bottled up and sent for us to try.
CP Photo: Amanda Waltz Nine O Clock Wines February subscription box Natural wine, while well meaning, hasn’t always impressed me. I ve purchased varieties proudly sporting the label, drawn in by the prospect of trying something unspoiled by pesticides and other man-made chemicals. Certainly, the experience would be truly next level; the reds bolder, the whites brighter. Instead, my dalliances with natural wines, particularly certified organic ones, has usually resulted in me asking, “Does this taste watery to you?” That view has changed with my discovery of Nine O Clock Wines, a new club and bottle shop dedicated to showcasing and selling all-natural vino. The service was co-founded by Celine Roberts and Christie Kliewer, who curated it with Bar Marco, the Strip District restaurant that also serves as the homebase f
The orientation includes essential information about hosting your corps member and about working with RFA, including some updated information. You may send more than one participant, and I encourage you to do so. However, attendance by at least one person is REQUIRED if you are to host a corps member.If you wish to attend the Feb. 19 session click here to register.If you wish to attend the Feb. 26 session click here to register.We understand how busy you are. But please take a few moments of your time to register for this mandatory session. If you have questions or you are not the person to whom this should be directed, please contact me. Best regards,Robert Naylor
A toast to spring
Credit: Getty Images
It got a little warmer this week. A few brave flowers are out and the birds are singing when they’re not buffeted by the breeze. So my thoughts have turned to springlike wines.
Suddenly I want whites with the scent of flowers – white blossom, honeysuckle, acacia – and a crisper flavour. I want them to taste of super-fresh, crunchy or tangy fruits such as apples, pears, lemons and limes, and they must be unoaked and young with vibrant acidity.
This might seem premature, but there’s nothing wrong with looking forward to more springy drinking, now March is not far away. In short, I’m sloughing off winter by means of what I pour in my glass. Picpoul de pinet appeals especially, not only because its style fits my idea of springtime wines, but also because it reminds me of summer holidays in the south of France.