Michelin to launch wine ratings

The Michelin Guide is turning its attention from fine dining to fine wine, announcing plans to start reviewing wines, a move that could shake up the traditional 100-point scoring system.

Michelin, famed for its star-rated restaurant guides, says it will now bring its trusted brand to wine criticism. The announcement follows its 2019 acquisition of The Wine Advocate, once the gold standard for wine reviews under critic Robert Parker. Michelin’s global director, Gwendal Poullennec, hinted that the brand’s influence could surpass that of Parker’s legacy.

While details remain scarce, some industry watchers suggest Michelin may adopt its famous three-star rating system for wines, offering a simpler and more intuitive scale. Yet concerns remain over potential conflicts of interest, given Michelin’s partnerships with governments and tourism bodies.

Still, for many wine lovers, Michelin’s arrival promises a refreshing new take on how wines are judged and celebrated.