In 2011, our list was compiled from more than 16 000 new releases our editors rated in our independent blind tastings. More than 5 400 of these wines earned outstanding or classic ratings (90 points or higher on Wine Spectator's 100-point scale). We narrowed the list down based on four criteria: quality (represented by score); value (reflected by release price); availability (measured by cases made or imported); and what we call the “X-factor”–the excitement generated by a rising-star producer, a benchmark wine or a significant milestone for a wine region. But no equation determines the final selections: These choices reflect our editors’ judgment and passion about the wines we tasted. In this year’s list, 12 countries (including South Africa, Australia, North America, New Zealand, Italy and France) are represented, and quality remains high, with an average score of 93 points. The average price per bottle dipped from last year from $48 to $44, compared with a $70 average for 90-point wines reviewed this year. We hope that you enjoy this list of exciting values, emerging stars and time-honored stalwarts and that our Top 100 of 2011 leads you to more deeply explore the world of wine. Please click here read more about the Top 100 on the Wine Spectator website. The Top 10 wines are: 1. Kosta Browne Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast 2009 2. Hall Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Kathryn Hall 2008 3. Domaine Huët Vouvray Moelleux Clos du Bourg Première Trie 2009 4. Campogiovanni Brunello di Montalcino 2006 5. Dehlinger Pinot Noir Russian River Valley 2008 6. Baer Ursa Columbia Valley 2008 7. Quinta do Vallado Touriga Nacional Douro 2008 8. Domenico Clerico Barolo Ciabot Mentin Ginestra 2006 9. Alain Graillot Crozes-Hermitage La Guiraude 2009 10. Château de St.-Cosme Gigondas Valbelle 2009 The only South African wine to make it on to the list was the De Morgenzon Chenin Blanc Stellenbosch 2009 that came in at number 93 with a score of 91 points. To view the complete list of 100 wines please click here.