Melbourne has no shortage of opinions about food. What it lacks is discipline.
The Considered Palate applies a consistent, rigorous methodology to every product we review. Each is tasted a minimum of three times. Each is purchased at full retail price. Each is assessed on its own terms, without favour, sponsorship, or haste.
We do not accept gifted products or promotional inventory. We do not attend launch events. We do not assign numerical scores. What we offer instead is close attention, honest language, and the conviction that the things we eat deserve better criticism than they typically receive.
The Three-Pass System
I. The Encounter
First impressions only. Texture, aroma, and immediate flavour profile are noted without judgement. Nothing is decided here.
II. The Interrogation
Conducted at least twenty-four hours later. Whether the first impression holds, or whether it was flattery, is the only question worth answering.
III. The Verdict
The critical tasting. Notes are taken in real time. The assessment is formed and does not change.