Robert Parker (wine critic)

American wine critic

Robert M. Parker, Jr.

Robert M. Parker Jr. (born July 23, 1947) is a prominent American wine critic known for his influential role in the wine industry. He is best known for his publication, The Wine Advocate, and for developing the 100-point wine rating scale that has become a standard in the industry.

Early Life and Education

Robert Parker was born in Baltimore, Maryland. He attended the University of Maryland, College Park, where he earned a degree in history. Parker later pursued a law degree at the University of Maryland School of Law. During his college years, Parker developed an interest in wine, which was further cultivated during a trip to France in the late 1960s.

Career

The Wine Advocate

In 1978, Parker founded The Wine Advocate, a bi-monthly newsletter that provided independent and consumer-oriented wine reviews. The publication quickly gained a reputation for its candid and unbiased evaluations, which contrasted with the more promotional tone of existing wine publications at the time.

100-Point Rating System

Parker is credited with popularizing the 100-point wine rating system, which he adapted from the American educational grading system. This system rates wines on a scale from 50 to 100 points, with wines scoring 90 points or above considered outstanding. The system has been widely adopted by other wine critics and publications.

Influence on the Wine Industry

Parker's reviews have had a significant impact on the wine industry, influencing both consumer preferences and wine production. His high ratings can lead to increased demand and higher prices for wines, a phenomenon known as the "Parker effect." Some winemakers have even adjusted their production methods to align with Parker's taste preferences, which often favor bold, fruit-forward wines.

Criticism and Controversy

Despite his influence, Parker has faced criticism for his perceived preference for certain styles of wine, particularly those from Bordeaux and California. Critics argue that his ratings have contributed to a homogenization of wine styles, as producers aim to achieve high scores. Parker has also been criticized for his role in the "globalization" of wine, where traditional regional characteristics are overshadowed by a more international style.

Retirement and Legacy

In 2012, Parker sold a significant stake in The Wine Advocate to a group of Singaporean investors, and in 2019, he announced his retirement from wine criticism. Despite stepping back from active reviewing, Parker's influence on the wine industry remains substantial, and his rating system continues to be a benchmark for wine quality.

Related Pages

• Wine critic
• The Wine Advocate
• Wine rating
• Bordeaux wine
• California wine