Robert Parker, Wine Critic

Who is Robert Parker (Parkers Wine Guide)?

Robert Parker is one of the most influential wine critics in the world. He is best known for his publication, The Wine Advocate, which rates and reviews wines from around the globe. Parker's 100-point rating system has become a standard in the wine industry, and his reviews are widely respected by both consumers and wine professionals.

Born in Baltimore, Maryland in 1947, Parker began his career as a lawyer before turning his passion for wine into a full-time profession. In 1978, he launched The Wine Advocate, which quickly gained a reputation for its thorough, unbiased reviews. Parker's palate was known for its precision and consistency, and he was known for being particularly fond of Bordeaux and California wines.

Parker's 100-point rating system is based on a wine's overall quality, with 100 being the highest possible score. Wines that score 90 or above are considered "outstanding," while those that score 80-89 are considered "good to very good." Parker's ratings have been known to have a significant impact on a wine's price and availability, with highly rated wines often selling out quickly.

In addition to his work with The Wine Advocate, Parker has also written several books on wine, including "The World's Greatest Wine Estates," "Bordeaux: A Consumer's Guide to the World's Finest Wines," and "Wine Buyer's Guide."

Despite his influence and success, Parker has also been the subject of some controversy. Some critics have accused him of being too influential and of having a palate that is too American-centric. Others have raised concerns about conflicts of interest, as Parker has been known to invest in the wines and wineries he reviews.

Despite these criticisms, Robert Parker's legacy in the wine world is undeniable. His palate, his rating system, and his publication continue to shape the way people think about and enjoy wine.
Back to blog
  • Top 10 Wine Blogs for Wine Lovers (Updated 2025) & a New Entrant……

    Top 10 Wine Blogs for Wine Lovers (Updated 2025...

    Wine enthusiasts, rejoice! We've updated our list. The love for wine is overflowing across the internet, and passionate wine bloggers are offering their conversational, heartfelt, and unfiltered viewpoints to connect...

    Top 10 Wine Blogs for Wine Lovers (Updated 2025...

    Wine enthusiasts, rejoice! We've updated our list. The love for wine is overflowing across the internet, and passionate wine bloggers are offering their conversational, heartfelt, and unfiltered viewpoints to connect...

  • Why Swirling Wine Unlocks the Nose: The Science Behind Aroma Release

    Why Swirling Wine Unlocks the Nose: The Science...

    Have you ever noticed how swirling your wine in the glass seems to “wake it up”? It’s not just ritual — it’s chemistry, physics, and a touch of thermodynamics. Swirling...

    Why Swirling Wine Unlocks the Nose: The Science...

    Have you ever noticed how swirling your wine in the glass seems to “wake it up”? It’s not just ritual — it’s chemistry, physics, and a touch of thermodynamics. Swirling...

  • mycorrhizal network between vineyards and adjacent forests

    The Hidden Partnership: How Mycorrhizal Fungi, ...

    In the world of winemaking, terroir—the unique combination of soil, climate, and environment—plays a defining role in the flavor and character of wine. While factors such as sunlight, rainfall, and...

    The Hidden Partnership: How Mycorrhizal Fungi, ...

    In the world of winemaking, terroir—the unique combination of soil, climate, and environment—plays a defining role in the flavor and character of wine. While factors such as sunlight, rainfall, and...

NaN of -Infinity