Grading scale and how it works.

    I figured now would be the best time at any point to showcase how my grading scale goes and what "criteria" I go by to give my grades. Frankly, the reason I chose letter grades VS a number scale is to give number score is to give a better representation of each grade. When I see someone grade a spirit an 86 then turn around and give something an 87, my mind goes to...what was the 1 point difference that caused that? So for me, going letter grades give a better described grading for the differences. For the beginning of my spirit journey, I never wanted to give sores or grades. My end point was to give viewers either a "yes it's worth it" or "maybe pass." But in 2024 I started charging my mindset and wanted to go a new direction.  

    Below is the grading scale I am going to be going with. If any changes are made overtime, additional context or notes will be listed on the changes. Essentially, I am going with the A to F scale.

A+ (Perfection). - This is the pinnacle of perfection—the nectar of the gods. When you think of an ideal pour, this bottle defines it. From the mash bill and aging process to the nose, palate, and finish, every aspect is flawlessly executed. Whether it’s a big-name brand or a hidden gem from a craft distillery, this bottle speaks for itself. It’s worth buying, savoring, and even backing up (if cost permits).

A (Excellent). - This bottle is exceptional in every sense. The mash bill, age, and craftsmanship all come together to create something special. The nose is complex, the palate is well-rounded, and the finish lingers in all the right ways. It’s not quite perfection, but it’s unquestionably worth seeking out. Whether you’re savoring it neat or showcasing it for friends, this bottle shines as an excellent example of what whiskey can be.

A- (Amazing). - A standout pour that flirts with greatness. The notes are engaging, the balance is impressive, and the finish leaves you wanting more. It may have a small flaw or lack the depth to reach the next tier, but it’s still a fantastic bottle that’s worth buying and enjoying. This is the kind of whiskey you’d recommend to enthusiasts without hesitation.

B+ (Great). - This is a strong, enjoyable whiskey that delivers above-average quality. The nose and palate may have a standout feature or two, but the overall experience might fall short of being transformative. It’s an excellent value for its price point, and while it won’t blow anyone’s mind, it will leave most people impressed. Worth grabbing, especially if you spot it on a good deal.

B (Above average). - A solid pour that gets the basics right. The nose is inviting, the palate is balanced, and the finish is satisfying, even if nothing particularly stands out. It may lack complexity or fall short in one or two areas, but it’s a reliable choice that holds up well. Great for casual sipping or mixing, it’s a bottle that’s worth trying, though not necessarily hunting down.

B- (Fairly good). - This bottle lands slightly above the average but misses a few key marks. Maybe the nose is promising but doesn’t fully deliver on the palate, or the finish feels a bit abrupt. It’s enjoyable but leaves room for improvement. A fair option for casual drinking, but you might pause before purchasing it again if the price isn’t right.


C+ (Slightly above average). - This bottle edges just above the middle of the pack. It might surprise you with a pleasant nose or an unexpectedly smooth palate, but there’s nothing here that demands attention. The pricing may feel slightly off, or the finish could leave you wanting more. Still, it’s a good pour for casual sipping or experimenting with mixers, but not necessarily one to stock up on.

C (Average). - A straightforward pour that does exactly what it needs to, but nothing more. The nose, palate, and finish are all serviceable, with no glaring flaws or standout qualities. It’s the kind of bottle you might keep on hand for mixing or a casual drink without much thought. There’s nothing wrong with it, but it won’t leave a lasting impression either. A no-frills, middle-of-the-road whiskey.

C- (Slightly below average). - This bottle falls just shy of hitting the mark. The nose or palate might feel off, the balance is likely lacking, or the finish ends too quickly. It’s not outright bad, but it needs a push to reach a truly average standard. You could sip it or use it as a mixer, but it’s unlikely to make its way back into your collection unless there are improvements or a big sale.


D+ (Below average). - This bottle falls short in several areas. The nose might be muted, the palate flat or unbalanced, and the finish uninspiring. Perhaps it has one or two redeeming qualities, but they’re overshadowed by noticeable flaws. While it’s drinkable, it lacks the character to make it worth buying unless deeply discounted or out of curiosity.

D (Poor). - A disappointing experience overall. The nose is likely weak or off, the palate is unbalanced, and the finish may be forgettable or unpleasant. There’s not much redeeming here, and it struggles to justify even a low price. While it might be drinkable in a pinch, this is a bottle best avoided unless there’s nothing else around.

D- (Barely passing). - This pour struggles to meet even the lowest expectations. The nose, palate, and finish are all lackluster, with little to recommend it. At best, it’s drinkable in a pinch; at worst, it’s a regretful purchase. Not worth hunting, buying, or even sipping unless you’re desperate or curious about its shortcomings.


F (Do not buy). - This bottle is a complete disappointment with no redeeming qualities. The nose is uninspiring, the palate is unpleasant or unbalanced, and the finish might be non-existent—or worse, lingering for all the wrong reasons. The price, no matter how low, doesn’t justify the experience. While I hesitate to call anything a "drain pour," this bottle comes dangerously close. If you must try it, let it be only out of curiosity and only if it’s free. Otherwise, avoid at all costs.