Color me jaded, but human beings have a lifespan.
Money is money, and Parker will now be ensured wealth and security in his retirement. Although I'm not really familiar with the details, this had to happen sometime, and Parker needed to take care of himself.
Wall Street Journal Article
Businessweek Article
The Wine Cellar Insider Article
Decanter Article
I'm just wondering what all the point-memorizers will do now that he's gone. My guess is that they'll climb on-board with whatever marketing train is leaving the station.
Prediction: in the long term, this is going to have enormous ramifications in the Hong Kong auction market, and eventually the world auction market, and the wineries with the most money, will win.
A loss for the consumer? Yep. As much as I disagree with Parker's palate, I'd rather have one man's flaws held accountable than a wild-west situation.