I do actually think that word has already gone beyond the man...though he does not do the ratings himself.  It is his team and in a sense he signs his name by publishing them.  I can't wait to see what happens when he retires!

I definetely agree with you that wineries betting exclusively on a perceived "Parker" style are risking an awful lot.  They risk becoming getting lost in the crowd amongst so many "look-alike" power wines...they are also risking a possible backlash trend after Parker goes.