Christian has posted a satirical scenario over at Turn the Screw that brings up a serious point. Namely, what would happen to the wine world if Robert Parker and the leading writers from the Wine Spectator passed away? Where would we get the skinny on which wines to try and cellar? How could we collect those 95+ or Top 100 wines if no one was there to tell us?
For me, it boils down to what I taste and the recommendations from friends. Yes, I read Parker and the Spectator just like any other cork dork, and it does have an effect every time I visit a wine store. But I think we would all adjust (after the shock of loss and grieving, of course) to the world after Parker, et. al. Smart retailers would have more tastings and the wine blog world would have more readers. We might even talk to our friends about what wines they like to drink and learn something. Isn’t that what this wine thing is all about; sharing? We would also have plenty of British wine writers to fill the void, as well.
It was good to see Matt Kramer was unscathed in Christian’s horrible nightmare. At least he could continue to provide professional commentary…
From Tim Elliott, of course! PS, really enjoyed the Wines of Minnesota show (I’m catching up on my old podcast downloads) and your interview with Nan from Alexis Bailly Winery. Keep up the good work!