Why Should You Care About Wine Show Points and Trophies?
Wine show points and trophies. They’re the gold stars of the wine world, right? But do they really matter to you, the wine consumer? Let’s dive into the world of wine awards and uncover why they might (or might not) influence your next bottle choice.
The Impact of Wine Show Awards on Consumers
- A Shortcut to Quality: While not a guaranteed indicator of taste, wine show awards can serve as a helpful shortcut when navigating a vast wine selection. A trophy or high point score suggests a wine has met specific quality standards.
- Building Trust: Renowned wine shows with rigorous judging processes lend credibility to awarded wines. This can build trust between the consumer and the wine producer.
- Wine Show Auditing: All national and most regional wine shows have formal audit procedures in their regulations to guarantee the integrity of exhibits and results. The aim of auditing is to discourage any breach of regulations by an exhibitor, whether through carelessness or deceit and assure other exhibitors, the wine trade, the press and consumers that high standards are being maintained.
- Discovering New Wines: Wine shows often spotlight lesser-known regions or varieties. An award-winning wine from a new-to-you area can be a thrilling discovery.
- Enhancing Wine Experiences: Sharing a wine with friends that has won accolades can elevate the drinking experience, adding a layer of excitement and conversation.
How to Use Wine Show Information Wisely
- Consider the Show: Research the reputation and judging criteria of the wine show.
- Read the Tasting Notes: Look beyond the score and see if the wine’s style aligns with your preferences.
- Trust Your Palate: Ultimately, the best way to judge a wine is by tasting it yourself.
- Don’t Be a Slave to Scores: A high-scoring wine might not be your cup of tea.
In conclusion, wine show awards can be a valuable tool in your wine exploration journey, but they shouldn’t dictate your choices entirely. Use them as a starting point, but trust your own taste buds to determine what you truly enjoy.
