In 1997, Coffee Review began reviewing coffees for consumers and the trade using a 100-point scale. Such ratings were widely in use at the time for wines, but no one had used them before for coffee. The industry seemed ready for the idea, even enthusiastic about it, and today 100-point ratings saturate specialty coffee communication, particularly within the trade, where they play a role everywhere, from green coffee competitions to green dealer reports.
The same challenges, opportunities, and caveats present themselves as we introduce 100-point reviews to the tea industry some two decades later. To explore the paradox of 100-point reviews in more detail, read The 100-point Coffee Rating Paradox, an insightful 2015 article by Kenneth Davids, co-founder and editor-in-chief of Coffee Review that remains relevant and timely as we prepare to launch 100-point tea reviews in 2019.
Tea Review’s mission is help consumers identify and purchase superior quality teas, thereby increasing demand and prices, and ultimately rewarding farmers and tea companies that invest their time, passion, and capital in producing high quality teas.
Based on past experience, it will take a lot of time, energy, collaboration, and capital to establish and promote a credible 100-point tea rating system and reviews.
We’re looking for strategic partners, sponsors, advertisers, and investors who share our vision, goals, and enthusiasm. To learn more about sponsorship, advertising, and partnership opportunities at Tea Review, contact Ron Walters at [email protected].
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