I am an independent wine writer, wine critic, and wine blogger and write for wine guides and publications both in print and in internet – in English and in German. Yes, producers and merchants do send me free samples. My policy is to accept no more than one bottle per particular wine per year. I will not commit myself to write about any unsolicited wines whatsoever, but will – if they fit my whim or a blind tasting or an article that I am writing. Anyone who would like to send me multiple bottles of vintage Champagne, DRC, Lafite or other fine, rare blue chip wines are welcome to apply for an exception to this rule.
2 Responses to “My Policy on “Freebies””
Comments (2)
Quite right too, as a food/restaurant site we receive all kinds of samples (please no more cheese by post! It was delayed and had gone terribly off!). We also are invited to eat in restaurants free of charge. None of this makes any difference to what we write, and if a manufacturer or restaurant is unhappy with our review opinion then so far they haven't said so. They know we are not vindictive, merely objective and accept our fair comment. 'Freebies' area useful way of getting publicity, but at the end of the day the product is the product and stands or falls on its own merits. Our website is http://www.foodepedia.co.uk feel free to pop in!
Thanks Nick! Sorry about the smelly cheese in your mailbox! ;-0
Unsolicited freebie's are a two-sided coin aren't they? As critics, we have the responsibility of giving the products the attention and respect they deserve. We must remain objective and give every sample a chance. On the other side no one will ever get me to say a nice word about a crappy product. Critics of the critics sometimes forget that we have a responsibility about dealing with packaging and recycling of all those samples. The glass depot knows me well!
I like your site, by the way, keep up the great work!