I have to admit that in starting this blog, I was warned of the problems associated with a grading system. True, I think that placing a grading system is risky, especially for a person like me who has tasted probably 100 whiskies at most because hey, how can I know that this whisky deserves a 95/100 when there are much much better ones out there?
The truth is, yes, I don't, and until the day that I reach 1000+ whiskies tasted I would place this disclaimer on the site. Ratings are really personal to me, so please don't take my word for it! The important thing is that I realise readers read reviews for two things, notes and a rating. For those who prefer to delve into the intricacies of the notes in a whisky, the tasting notes are what they prefer to read, for those who just want to see how good a whisky based on a score, the score helps give a rough idea of how I grade the whisky:) That is the main reason why I choose to put both notes and grading, so I can help all types of readers who come to my blog looking for information on whiskies:)
But to make how SGwhisky grades whisky a bit clearer, here is the breakdown of how I grade a whisky!
SGwhisky's Grading System
Total Grading: Upon 100 (25 for Nose, 25 for Taste/Palate, 25 for Finish, 25 for Overall + Balance)
100 - Perfection. And in the wise words of many of the world's leading critics, this is probably impossible and unattainable, besides, do you really want to find this holy grail? It may be better having something like this as an ideal to always hope for.
96-99 - Amazing and close to perfect whiskies. These drams are well-balanced, rich in flavours, have no off notes and are complex on the nose, palate and finish, basically it is a stellar example of whisky. A definite must try if one can find it
90-95 - Exceedingly good whisky. Just like those who score a bit higher but perhaps one of the four aspects fall short by a little. Good stuff that is worth sourcing out to taste
85-89 - Great whiskies. Generally well-balanced, decently complex and rich. Good whisky that is worth drinking.
80-84 - Very good whiskies. Maybe lacking in a few areas or contains an off-note or so, but in general, it is still very drinkable.
75-79 - Decently good whiskies. Simple and clean flavours that can be pleasant to drink, but nothing much to write home about
70-74 - Average whiskies. One can find things to like, but it would not warrant having to search for it, nor rush to get it.
65-69 - Below Average whiskies. I would drink them if I was offered it, but in general I won't get one, BUT this is my personal take, and definitely not indicative of everyone's view.
60-64 - Similar to the one above, except that this may be slightly unpleasant in terms of some aspects, making it less desirable.
50-59 - Rather bad. I would personally avoid such whiskies, but for curiosity's sake I may give it a whirl
Below 50 - As one goes further down the scale from 50, the whisky has even less to like, maybe something even foul and offensive about it. I don't proclaim to be a leading authority, but I would advise people as a person not to touch it.
(Disclaimer: As always, this is a personal view, hence anyone and everyone, regardless of how familiar one is with whisky, is entitled to disagree. I sincerely hope none of the whiskies I ever try will have to fall to the depths of the lower ranges of this chart, but if they do I mean no offence to anyone who may like it. Having said that, all I ask is that as much as I respect the views of everyone, I hope everyone respects mine too. I make it a point to not be offensive with my writing, and I hope that shows in my work!)
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