Wait a minute...

Who in the world is Robert Parker? And what is Wine Enthusiast?

During this course I have heard these two names mentioned with regard to wine ratings, both from Vaynerchuck on Wine Library TV and at the Vintage Cellar wine tastings. I have obviously gathered the relevance and general context of the purp

ose and concept of what function these two validation-giving people/things offer, but I do not know exactly what's going on with them. So here goes my search for knowledge:

Robert M. Parker:

Parker was born in 1947 and is one of the top wine critics in America, with influence stretching internationally. Robert Parker rates wines on a scale of 100 which has met with much controversy. Though the quantitative nature of a score seems cut and dry, Parker recognizes and emphasizes that no numerical system can appropriately rank a wine; written comments connected with quantitative scores give those with interest a better understanding of the wine in question. Some criticize Parker for the influence he has had on the wine industry, both in the sense that his taste buds are naturally biased towards ce

rtain types of wines (which carries over to the scoring and reputation of the wines) as well as with regard to how Parker's specific criticisms have shaped consumers' perspectives. ...So take everything with a grain of salt. Or just. Grapes. Or not. Also of note, Parker publishes a newsletter called "The Wine Advocate," the means by which Parker's unique vocabulary has achieved significant influence in the culture of wine.

*Note, not to be confused with Robert B. Parker, a crime writer. HAHA.

The Wine Enthusiast:

This is a publication distributed as a magazine as well as a catalog, and it is also a store. After the first glimpse, it's obvious that Wine Enthusiast is one way to achieve the ultimate wine culture immersion; whether that is via food and pairing, tools and supplies, wine knowledge, housewares, tips and techniques and MORE.