How We Taste.
We score five aspects of every wine from 0 to 2. The numbers are shorthand, not a verdict: the tasting note always matters more.
01. Energy
MOVEMENT & FRESHNESS
Does the wine feel alive in the glass? We look at acidity, movement, freshness, and how it changes after opening.
0 - FlatHeavy, tired, or static.
1 - SteadyEnough movement to hold our attention.
2 - ChargedEnergetic from the first glass to the last.
02. Drinkability
THE NEXT SIP
Do we want to take another sip? Texture, alcohol, extraction, and faults can all affect how easily the wine moves.
0 - TiringDifficult to finish.
1 - DrinkableEnjoyable, with some reservations.
2 - CompellingThe glass empties quickly.
03. Balance
PROPORTION
Does any element dominate the wine? We consider acidity, tannin, alcohol, fruit, oak, and texture.
0 - DisjointedOne or more elements get in the way.
1 - Mostly togetherBalanced, though the seams are visible.
2 - IntegratedNothing feels out of place.
04. Complexity
CHANGE OVER TIME
Does the wine change in the glass? We look for new aromas, textures, and flavours as it opens.
0 - SimpleOne clear idea, with little development.
1 - LayeredMore appears with time.
2 - EvolvingIt continues to change throughout the bottle.
05. Emotion
WHAT REMAINS
Did the wine leave an impression beyond its technical qualities?
0 - ForgettableLittle remains after the glass.
1 - DistinctiveSomething about it stays with us.
2 - MemorableWe are still thinking about it the next day.