The Points


Drink The Bottles 100-Point Scale

How We Think About Points

If there’s one thing we’ve said over and over again through the years, it’s this:

Don’t get wrapped up in the scores.

Seriously. Scores are everywhere—100-point scales, 20-point systems, gold medals, badges, stickers. They’re useful, but they’re not the whole story. A number can’t tell you how a wine or whiskey fits your taste, your mood, or your moment.

So why use points at all?

Because they can still be helpful.

Think of a score as a quick snapshot—a simple way to signal whether something is worth your attention. It’s not the final word, and it’s definitely not the only thing that matters. Our goal is to give you context first, and a score second.

What Goes Into Our Scores

When we do assign a score, it reflects the entire experience of the bottle—not just what’s in the glass.

We consider things like:

  • Presentation – Yes, the label matters. Does it stand out? Does it tell a story? (This carries the least weight, but it’s still part of the experience.)
  • Appearance – How does it look in the glass?
  • Aroma – What do you notice right away? Is it inviting, complex, balanced?
  • Taste – The core of it all. Flavor, structure, balance, and how everything comes together.
  • Finish – Does it linger in a good way, or disappear too quickly?
  • Memorability – Does it make you want another pour? Would you share it with friends?
  • Value – Is it worth the price? Would you buy it again?
  • Availability – Can people actually find it, or is it a once-in-a-blue-moon bottle?

All of these factors come together into one overall impression. That’s what the score represents.

Why We Sometimes Skip Scores

Over the years, we’ve had plenty of producers ask us not to assign points—and honestly, we get it.

In many cases, we prefer letting the notes speak for themselves.

A well-written review should give you a clear sense of whether a bottle is right for you without needing a number attached. The goal is to help you make a confident decision, not to reduce everything to a grade.

Our Philosophy (In Plain English)

If you only chase 95+ point bottles, you’re going to miss out on a lot of great wine and whiskey.

Some of the best bottles we’ve ever had were affordable, easy to find, and never hyped. Others were higher-end and worth every penny. The common thread? They were enjoyable.

That’s what matters.

Drink what you like. Share what you love. Don’t let a number tell you what your taste should be.

One Last Thing

The secret to enjoying a great wine or whiskey?

Open it. Pour it. Give it a little time to breathe—and then just enjoy it.

Everything else is secondary.


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