Classification systems: rank, not judgment

The standard

A disclosed classification basis names by which criterion the division is made and when it was last reviewed. Without this a rank is a claim without a traceable reference.

Criteria

• The dividing criterion is named
• The scope of the system is delimited
• The state of the last review is stated
• Rank and quality of the single wine are kept apart

Distinction

Classification systems ≠ quality judgment: a rank places within a rule, it does not assess the single wine. Classification systems ≠ appellation: the appellation denotes origin, the classification system a ranking within it. A disclosed classification basis makes the difference verifiable.