36 wines reach 100 points from The Wine Advocate in 2023

100-point wines and their market impact

2023-11-21

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Lisa Perrotti-Brown editor-in-chief for The Wine Advocate

As 2023 unfolds, the global wine market is witnessing significant shifts, both in terms of commercial activities and exceptional ratings that are redefining prestige and market value. A prominent development is the allocation of perfect scores by The Wine Advocate, a highly respected wine rating source, which is influencing current commercial trends. Livex, the leading index for global wine market analysis, offers an in-depth look into these developments.

Unprecedented Number of Perfect Scores by The Wine Advocate

In a remarkable achievement, The Wine Advocate awarded perfect 100-point scores to 36 wines from 11 regions across eight countries. Bordeaux emerged as the standout region, receiving the highest number of perfect scores, notably all awarded by critic William Kelley. Highlighting this trend, the Jacques Frédéric Mugnier, Musigny Grand Cru 2015, was upgraded from its previous score of 95-97 points in 2016.

Notably, Domaine Comte Georges de Vogue's Musigny Grand Cru Cuvée Vieilles Vignes 1947, a 73-year-old wine, received a perfect score, showcasing the longevity and excellence of fine wines. Additionally, Domaine de la Romanée-Conti's La Tâche Grand Cru 1962 saw its score rise from 96 to a perfect 100 in 2023.

In Bordeaux, seven wines from the 2020 vintage, which hit the market this year, received top ratings from William Kelley. Among these, Château Canon 2020 received high acclaim in 'Primeur' by Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, with other châteaux like La Conseillante, Figeac, Mouton Rothschild, and La Mission Haut-Brion surpassing their barrel scores.

The Rise of American and Spanish Wines

In the United States, critics Erin Brooks and Joe Czerwinski awarded perfect scores to three Californian wines from 2019, including Harlan Estate and Vérité's Le Désir. Washington State wines also received top ratings from critic Anthony Mueller.

In Spain, two Vega Sicilia vintages (1968 and 1970) achieved perfect scores, along with Dominio Aguila Ribera del Duero 2016 and Viariz La Muria 2021, reflecting the growing prestige of Spanish wines.

Global Recognition Beyond Bordeaux and Tuscany

While Bordeaux and Tuscany maintain their leadership positions, other renowned wines worldwide continue to attract attention. The Wine Advocate's autumn editions of Beyond Bordeaux highlighted Nicolás Catena Zapata 2020 and Viñedo Chadwick 2021, among others.

Bordeaux and Tuscany: Commercial Dominance

Commercially, Bordeaux wines dominate the market, accounting for 56.8% of total trade by value. The Château Lafite Rothschild 2020 and Château Belair-Monange 2020 are notably active in the market. In Tuscany, Argiano's Brunello di Montalcino 2018 led the trade by volume, with Bibi Graetz's Testamatta Rosso 2018 also notable for its trading volume.

Despite the growth in other regions, Champagne trade fell to just 6.3%, with Dom Pérignon Luminous 2013 being the second most traded by value since last Friday.

As 2023 marks a pivotal year in the wine industry, it's clear that the combination of exceptional ratings and robust commercial activities are reshaping the landscape, with Bordeaux and Tuscany maintaining their stronghold while other regions rise in prominence and appeal.

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