What Does a 90 Point Wine or Whisky Really Mean?

If you have ever browsed the wine or whisky aisle and noticed bottles proudly labeled “90 Points” or higher, you are not alone in wondering what that number actually means. Wine and whisky ratings play a major role in how products are priced, promoted, and perceived, but the system can feel confusing if you are not familiar with how it works.

This guide breaks down what 90 point ratings mean, how they are determined, and how to use them to choose a bottle you will truly enjoy.

What Is the 100 Point Rating System?

Most wine and whisky scores are based on a 100 point scale, a system popularized in the late 20th century and now widely used across the beverage industry. While it may sound like a school exam, the scale does not usually start at zero.

In practice, most professionally reviewed wines and whiskies score between 80 and 100 points.

General score ranges typically mean:

• 80 to 84 points: Good quality with some noticeable flaws or limitations
• 85 to 89 points: Very good and well made
• 90 to 94 points: Excellent quality with balance, character, and complexity
• 95 to 100 points: Outstanding, rare, or exceptional

A 90 point wine or whisky signals a product that stands out in quality and craftsmanship.

What Makes a Wine or Whisky 90 Points?

A score of 90 points or higher is not awarded lightly. Reviewers evaluate multiple elements during a structured tasting process.

For Wine, Judges Consider:

• Aroma and intensity
• Balance of fruit, acidity, tannin, and alcohol
• Texture and mouthfeel
• Complexity and length of finish
• Typicity, meaning how well it represents its grape and region

For Whisky, Judges Look At:

• Nose, including aroma depth and clarity
• Palate, focusing on flavour development and balance
• Finish length and evolution
• Integration of alcohol
• Overall character and craftsmanship

A 90 point rating means the wine or whisky delivers harmony, depth, and enjoyment from start to finish.

Who Gives These Ratings?

Scores are assigned by professional critics, publications, and tasting panels. Some of the most widely referenced rating sources include Wine Spectator, Robert Parker Wine Advocate, and Whisky Advocate.

Each critic or publication has its own tasting methodology, palate preferences, and scoring philosophy, which is why the same bottle may receive slightly different scores from different sources.

Is a 90 Point Bottle Always Better?

Not necessarily. A 90 point rating indicates technical excellence, but it does not guarantee that the wine or whisky matches your personal taste.

For example:

• You may prefer bold, fruit driven wines even if a lighter, more elegant wine scores higher
• You may enjoy smoky peat forward whisky, while a higher rated bottle leans sweeter and softer

Ratings are best used as a quality benchmark rather than a rule.

How to Use 90 Point Ratings When Shopping

When used correctly, ratings can be a helpful tool.

Here is how to get the most value from them:

• Treat 90 points as a sign of reliability, not perfection
• Read tasting notes to see if the flavour profile matches your preferences
• Compare ratings within the same category or style
• Use high scores to discover new regions, producers, or styles

A well chosen 88 point bottle you love is always better than a 94 point bottle you do not.

Are Higher Scores Worth the Price?

Often, but not always. Wines and whiskies that score 90 points or higher can command higher prices due to demand and limited supply. However, excellent value can often be found in the high 80s from respected producers.

Savvy shoppers use ratings to identify quality, then rely on their own palate to determine value.

The Bottom Line on 90 Point Wine and Whisky

A 90 point wine or whisky represents excellent craftsmanship, balance, and enjoyment. It is a strong indicator of quality and a great place to start when exploring new bottles.

The best bottle, however, is not the highest rated one. It is the one that suits your taste, occasion, and budget.

Understanding what those numbers really mean helps you shop with confidence and enjoy every sip more fully.