Robert Parker's definition of a perfect wine
In a video aimed at subscribers of Wine AdvocateThe famous critic Robert Parker shares his vision of a perfect wine.
What is a perfect wine?
For this great taster, it is possible to detect the potential of a perfect wine right from the tasting. First EditionsThis is a wine that must satisfy both the palate and the intellect. It must intrigue the taster, make them think, and above all, hold their attention. Like a magnet, it should make the taster want to return, to taste this nectar again. A certain kind of addiction develops between the taster and the wine they discover. On the palate, it's a wine that should be delicious, with aromas and flavors that explode, but above all... perfect balanceIntensity does not mean heaviness, quite the opposite! Robert Parker places great emphasis on the balance of a wine because it is easy to make a powerful wine but more difficult to find the balance.
The balance of a wine
For tasting, balance is fundamental! It is what will create harmony between the elements present in the wine. For a white wine, acidity, alcohol, and sugar/sweetness must be subtly integrated. For reds, tannins must be added to these three elements, but the principle remains the same. The question to ask is: does one element seem more prominent than another? If the answer is yes, the wine is not balanced. If, on the other hand, the wine seems harmonious and no element is perceived as more prominent than another, the wine is considered balanced.
The evolution of a wine over time
Another determining factor in the quality of a perfect wine: its evolution over timeA wine tasted en primeur should have improved by the time it is bottled. This evolution should be even more pronounced after a few years in the bottle.
The personality of a wine
A perfect wine should be uniqueto have some singularityIt cannot resemble all the other wines of its appellation. It must simply be exceptional and create a special emotion in the taster.
What are the perfect wines?
Robert Parker's website lists 338 wines that received a perfect score of 100/100. In the 2010 vintage, 10 Bordeaux châteaux achieved this score. In the Rhône Valley, he lists 17! In 2009, the trend reversed, with Bordeaux taking the lead with 19 châteaux compared to 13 wines from the Rhône.
To conclude his video, Robert Parker emphasizes that every tasting is personal. His scores reflect his opinion and are solely his own, based on his 35 years of experience as a wine professional. However, his influence is so great that his scores have an impact worldwide. They bring joy and prestige to some producers but can also cause displeasure.
Cavissima invites you to consult Parker's ratings for Bordeaux Primeurs 2012!