Interesting question.

Maybe because wine tasting has a check… did you get the region vineyard, and year correct.

Although, on the other hand, I suppose “1992 Wilson Watt Puppies”… might constitute a test. 
 

Hmmm, I could completely see classes… identifying all the attributes, rhythm and pace, transient speed, micro details… etc. I would love to take the advanced class. 

There are "master" audiophiles too.  but just like master sommeliers, master audiophiles don't spend time chatting with random guys on the internet.  

Imagine a master sommelier's response when @jasonbourne52 responded to his thread that there is no difference between ripple and grand cru?

Imagine when @mastering92 suggested things that violate the laws of physics.  

They would just not come back, which is what many tip guys do here.

Jerry

My dad always said to consider the source. I'll take an experienced and seasoned audiophile over all the naysayers here. Having that repository of knowledge and experience, knowing what and how to listen for musics cues and tells cannot be done with a scope.  Never could.

On my semi frequent wine tastings I've met an actual sommelier (besides the one who pours) and conversations with him are so enlightening, informative and just good fun.  Any question I have (and I've had some zingers) are deftly dealt with, which gives me the impression that the ones who always cite the shortcomings of a  sommelier have never really met one or are too afraid to go out and meet and drink with one. 

All the best,
Nonoise

Brain is breaking on it's own. I ain't doin' it.

Being a wine geek and an audiophile I find your analogy thought provoking. I think that there are some major differences that account for the acrimony. Unless we personally made the wine outside of what we paid for it, we have no skin in the game . We audiophiles usually put together our systems so we not only are personally invested ,we are also financially. If a bottle of wine I pour isn’t up to snuff I can shrug it off by saying, I didn’t make the wine. Yes ,I may have selected it but unlike a stereo system it is just one bottle.

I haven’t purchased a wine publication in years. I trust my senses because there is more to wine than just taste. I don’t take it personal if someone doesn’t like a wine I pour. We all have our own preferences. My wife loves beets, I can’t stand them.

I am guilty of reading the two main audio magazines and if they have an opinion about a record, piece of gear etc. that is the opposite of mine I chalk it up to each their own. 
 I do get frustrated by those who insult others on this forum. If a power cord ,fuse etc. makes a positive difference in your system and you want to share your experience with others you shouldn’t be subjected to ridicule. I have gotten some great information on this and other forums.
 I trust my ears and palate but I appreciate the opinions of others. We are all different to some extent thank goodness or the the world be a really boring place.