We thought long and hard about wine reviews. We were tired of huge point systems but found that stars and thumbs weren't enough to differentiate the range of drinkable wines. There were many ideas on what method or symbol to use. We tried placing various sized wine glasses in our reviews, counting with "tongues" (we used 8 tongue pictures for one excellent cab.), and a 'solve for "x" algebraic' equation. For various reasons (size interpretation problems, download time and lack of Math ability) each idea failed. So we settled on a hundred point system. Not each point is equivalent though. Wines score 40 points for being packaged in a bottle and an additional 20 points for being sealed with a cork (natural or

synthetic). If the wine has some identification upon the bottle (or cork) it receives another 20 points. The majority of the wines that we review get this "easy" 80 points. The last 20 points are the toughest and, coincidentally, put the score right in the familiar range if you are cozy with Wine Spectator or Robert Parker.  We give up to 8 points to answer this question - "Is this wine a good example of what it is trying to be?".   It isn't really fair to put a $10 thin red blend up against a lush Napa Cab, but with this system, each can earn the same points.  The remainder of the score belongs to enthusiasm.  This will separate the inexpensive table wine from the monster red.

On to Wine Reviews

750 ml.net, THE Wine Magazine ... keeping your expectations low so we don't disappoint