" My first trip to Japan, in 1998, began with an enormous crowd of Japanese paparazzi and television crews, all waiting for me to clear customs in Tokyo (a first-time experience for this wine critic). Over the next five days, the attention never waned. "
- Robert M. Parker, Jr.

In this quote, Robert M. Parker Jr., a renowned wine critic, describes his initial visit to Japan in 1998 and the overwhelming attention he received from Japanese media. Upon arriving at Tokyo's customs area, he was greeted by a large gathering of photographers and television crews, an experience that left him somewhat bewildered as it was unprecedented for someone like himself who is primarily known for writing about wine.

Beyond its literal meaning, this quote highlights the significant impact and global reach that Parker had even before his visit to Japan. The presence of numerous media personnel underscores his influence in the world of fine wine and suggests that he was already a well-known figure outside of traditional wine-producing regions like France or Italy. It also hints at the growing interest and importance of international figures in the Japanese market, reflecting how globalization has expanded the reach of influential personalities beyond their home territories.

Robert M. Parker Jr., the author of this quote, is a prominent American wine critic known for his influential ratings system that assigns numerical scores to wines. His writings and evaluations have greatly influenced global wine consumption trends and the pricing of fine wines in various markets around the world. With over four decades of experience, he has become one of the most respected figures in the wine industry, contributing significantly to its evolution and expansion into new regions and audiences.