I definitely enjoy video-game, and comic criticism from people I share opinions with, so I can see how someone would do the same thing with taste.
"This critic knows more than me, and tends to like merlots, maybe he'll suggest a reason why I like it, or a new wine that I'll like as well". Of course, taste is subjective, and that may never happen, but it tends to give people an idea of what wine/vidoe-game/comic they want to try next.
Exactly. And there are certain critics who happen to have the exact opposite taste of mine, which is also helpful if you just flip the recommendations.
"This critic knows more than me, and tends to like merlots, maybe he'll suggest a reason why I like it, or a new wine that I'll like as well". Of course, taste is subjective, and that may never happen, but it tends to give people an idea of what wine/vidoe-game/comic they want to try next.