Grape Observer is an independent wine review, published since 2009. It’s entirely written for the consumer.
It’s written by Sean Mitchell Dip WSET who writes about wine mostly here, is a qualified wine educator and contributes from time to time to other wine related publications. A brief wine bio is:
- Wine and Spirits Education Trust certified wine educator and examiner.
- Wine and Spirits Education Trust diploma (2014).
- WSET advanced certificate in wine and spirits (2008).
- Past recipient of international and Australian wine awards from Bibendum PLB and Wine Communicators of Australia.
How the scoring works
Wines are reviewed using this scale:
Outstanding (★★★★★, 95-100) wines sit on top of the quality hierarchy. This may be due to the length on the finish, complexity of expression, intensity of fruit, resounding typicity and harmonious balance.
Very Good (★★★★, 90-94) wines have special attributes. This may include long length, complexity, intensity of fruit, typicity or balance.
Good (★★★, 85-89) wines are of interest and show typicity and balance.
Acceptable (★★, 80-84) wines are sound, everyday and unremarkable wines that are fault free.
Basic (★, 51-79) wines are modest wines in all respects.
Faulty wines are not normally reviewed. Faults encountered include cork taint, brettanomyces, excessive volatile acidity and unintended oxidation.
Trade submissions
Trade submissions are welcomed. This is a consumer wine review, so there’s no fear or favour. The terms and conditions set out under “Fine Print” apply. Contact details are below.