Robert Parker
Robert Parker: A Life of Wine, Writing, and Enduring Legacy
Full Name and Common Aliases
Robert Michael Parker Jr., known to many as The Wine Advocate, was an American wine critic, author, and journalist.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on September 23, 1947, in Boston, Massachusetts. Passed away on January 31, 2023.
Nationality and Profession(s)
American, Wine Critic, Author, Journalist
Early Life and Background
Growing up in a family of modest means, Parker developed an interest in wine at an early age. His father, a chemist, encouraged his son's curiosity by taking him on wine-tasting trips to Europe. After graduating from Boston Latin School in 1965, Parker went on to study chemistry at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. However, he soon became disillusioned with the field and began writing about wine instead.
Major Accomplishments
Parker's career as a wine critic spanned over four decades. He is credited with revolutionizing the way people think about and drink wine. His influence extended far beyond his own publications to shape the entire wine industry. Some of his most significant accomplishments include:
Founding _The Wine Advocate_ in 1978, which became one of the most respected and widely read wine publications worldwide.
Developing the 100-point scoring system, which provided a simple yet effective way for readers to quickly understand the quality of a particular wine.
Establishing a network of regional wine experts who contributed articles and reviews to _The Wine Advocate_.Notable Works or Actions
Parker's writings and ratings had a profound impact on the global wine market. Some notable examples include:
His early recognition of the quality and potential of regions like Bordeaux, Burgundy, and California helped shape the modern wine landscape.
His enthusiastic promotion of wine producers like Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Margaux, and Opus One, among others, further solidified their global reputations.Impact and Legacy
Parker's influence extends far beyond his own publications to shape the entire wine industry. Some of his most significant contributions include:
Raising awareness about wine quality: By highlighting exceptional wines and producers, Parker helped wine enthusiasts navigate the often complex world of wine.
* Creating a global wine community: Through _The Wine Advocate_ and other initiatives, Parker brought people from different countries and backgrounds together to share their passion for wine.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Robert Parker's impact on the wine industry cannot be overstated. His tireless efforts to educate and entertain have made him a beloved figure among wine enthusiasts worldwide. As one of the most influential voices in the world of wine, his words continue to inspire, inform, and influence new generations of wine lovers.
With his passing, the wine community has lost a true giant, but his legacy lives on through the countless wines he helped discover, promote, and enjoy.
Quotes by Robert Parker
I don't want to work hard on a book that is not going to be published in my lifetime. I want the money now! And, of course, I want to see the book published.
I rarely write Spenser: For Hire. The ABC series is based on characters created by me, and I serve on the program as a consultant. As we all know, a consultant's first responsibility is to deposit the check every week. After that, I read each script and make suggestions.
Their Spenser, Robert Urich, is big, graceful, good-looking and young (a runner-up in the Robert B. Parker look-alike contest).
It was like a member of the family. We loved the dog. There is nothing wrong on our part.
It's the first time we've ever done this, but we are endeavoring to provide more clear, comprehensive and instantaneous information for people who want to monitor the election returns.
I trusted them to find me a mortgage at a good rate. He told me that was the best rate. I took his word for it. But now I know I could have done better than that.
It's an investment in the community in terms of our tax base and in good-paying jobs for our citizens,
They have been over the last few years, compared to other competitors like Philips, slow to restructure. Now they're having to bite the bullet.
They needed to do it. If this restructuring is left to year three out of the three-year plan, I think the market is going to be unimpressed.
The trend in mergers and acquisitions has been much stronger than we anticipated, and I can't see any factor that will turn it down. This is very positive for stocks.