BevX Ratings

Let’s face it; beverage ratings are kind of silly. However, a lot of people seem to like them and in the absence of familiarity a rating can provide some desired quality intelligence. To meet this “need” or at least to satisfy curiosity we reluctantly provide product ratings. We strongly suggest, no rather insist, that you take any ratings in conjunction with the accompanying tasting notes, as they will provide the greatest nugget of information and understanding. Buying by ratings alone is a dangerous thing and smacks of status seeking rather than flavor and pleasure seeking. We prefer the latter.

Some would have you believe that men in white coats do this sort of thing in a “laboratory.” Well if you enjoy a great bottle of Wine, tumbler of Single Malt, or classic German lager in the most sterile of conditions the white coat and pocket protector approach may appeal to you. We will respectfully decline. Any one or all of the Beverage Experts accomplishes our reviews. (Our bios and such are provided here for all to see)

To further remove some of the silly element we will often take a segment of our products that we review and try them in total context. If we speculate that a particular wine would be ideal with a traditional dish we will perform the pairing. If a reviewed Gin is thought to be an ideal Gin and tonic candidate we will give that a spin and see if it performs as well in the glass as in our imagination. In this way we seek to constantly challenge our evaluations and assertions while giving a real life “road test” to Beverages. After all, this is what we all do when enjoying the pleasures of life. Save the lab for that new, easy spread, water repellant.

Beverage Experts rates products on a 5-point scale using “Stars” as icons. 5 Stars is the absolute top of the scale and we will give this distinction very sparingly as it is reserved for the absolute best. 1 Star products are also recommended but just not as exciting as products with a higher Star rating. Products “not recommended” have been excluded and will not be listed on BevX.com. Unlike many who review beverages, we consider value. The reasons are simple as BevX is aimed toward consumers and all consumers consider value when making buying decisions. So do we.

BevX reviews and ratings are made without regard to advertising. After products are selected for publication we offer product representatives the chance to have the review accompanied by a label or product image for a negligible fee. There is never an obligation to add an image and BevX reviews and ratings are not influenced in any way by the decision.

All reviews by nature are subjective. We reserve the right to review any and all products available for commercial sale.

If you are still having trouble putting our 5 Star classification in context, equate our Star ratings to this:
5 Stars - Double Gold
4 Stars - Gold
3 Stars - Silver
2 Stars - Bronze
1 Star - Honorable Mention

BevX Star Ratings Decoded

Supreme!

This rating is reserved for the cream of the crop, the top of the heap. Walk across hot coals and risk missing your significant other’s birthday to secure it.

Exceptional!

A product of tremendous quality, style and distinction. The thought of such a product brings on a feeling of well-being if not mild euphoria.

Brilliant!

An outstanding product noted for its gratification and reliability. Eagerly received by experts and novices alike.

Pleasing.

A well-made and solid product that could be your “old reliable” and a welcome house beverage.

Agreeable.

Suitable for many occasions but may not be everyone’s cup of tea.