Rating Whisky on a 100-point Scale

Introduction

Understanding a 100-point whisky scale can be a bit challenging, especially if you're new to the world of whisky ratings. In this article, we aim to provide some insight into Whiskybase’s rating system, and offer guidelines to help you better interpret and assign ratings.

Why 100 Points?

Whiskybase uses a 100-point scale for whisky ratings, a system endorsed by whisky raters such as Michael Jackson (this one), Serge Valentin, and Ralfy.com.

We use the 100-point scale rather than a 5- or 10-point or star system because it allows more nuanced assessments. 

Always remember that any one person’s rating is simply that. However, while whisky scales, ratings, and interpretations of quality vary, here's a simplified breakdown to guide you toward your own 100-point ratings:

< 50 Points: Reserved for the absolute worst whiskies; rarely used.

50-69 Points: Inferior, below-average whiskies. These are what you might term “bottom-shelf,” and are generally the whiskies you’d avoid.

70-82 Points: Slightly below average to slightly above average.

83-89 Points: Good to very good whiskies. These are the whiskies you’d be happy to enthusiastically recommend to others.

90+ Points: Unquestionably outstanding whiskies. 90+ points are reserved for the most exceptional bottles. Exercise caution with frequent use, especially early in your whisky journey.

Your own personal rating of a whisky is up to you.

New raters on Whiskybase should consider these three basic principles

1. Consider the range scale for whiskies within a whisky brand’s portfolio: is the whisky you’re holding the exceptional bottling of your producer or bottler?

2. Understand that an “average” score lies within the 76-82 point range. What, in your estimation, is an average whisky? Consider assigning that whisky an average score and building your rating scale from there.

3. Finally, reserve extreme scores (<60 or 90+) for truly dismal or extraordinary experiences.

Whiskybase doesn't have a rating police or enforce a strict rating system. However, experienced Whiskybase users often develop their own interpretations of scale, and we encourage you to do the same.

Cheers!