Decanter is celebrating its 50th anniversary, a mark of its commitment to sharing the joy of wine appreciation since its inception in 1975. The magazine was born out of a desire to provide a vibrant, consumer-focused publication for wine enthusiasts who may not be experts, emphasizing enjoyment over elitism.
Hugh Johnson, a prominent figure in the wine world and a contributor to Decanter, reflects on how wine culture has evolved. In the past, the wine industry was simpler, with fewer resources, and fewer top-tier vintages were produced. The era of heavy investment in fine wines had just begun, and the emphasis was more on savoring each wine rather than declaring a "winner" in tastings.
Johnson believes the focus for wine lovers should be on appreciation and sharing rather than competition. He expresses his disdain for scoring wines numerically, a trend pioneered by critics like Robert Parker, which he felt could undermine the subjective experience of tasting. Instead, he prefers a more personalized approach, aligning bottles based on preference during tastings to foster discussion about the unique qualities of each wine.
The evolution of wine appreciation mirrors Decanter’s journey over the decades, promoting an ethos of enjoyment that remains relevant today. Hugh Johnson’s reflections highlight the magazine’s foundational belief: that wine is best enjoyed collectively, with a shared conversation about its diverse characteristics.