New Book Unveils Forgotten History of Australian Wine

Press Release

On Wednesday 26^th June, The Deputy Premier, the Hon Andrew Stoner MP, will be the special guest at the book launch of "First Vintage – Wine in Colonial New South Wales".

"First Vintage" was written by Newcastle-based academic Dr Julie McIntyre and explores the forgotten history of the early Australian wine industry.

The book was published by UNSW Press with the support of the NSW Wine Industry Association which considered it important to document the role of the early pioneers and their influence on the modern Australian wine industry.

It traces the development of the industry from the arrival of vine cuttings with the First Fleet and the roles played by influential colonists such as Blaxland, Wentworth, Lawson, John Macarthur and Thomas Mitchell.  It demonstrates the impact of international science and technology and the early emergence of wine regions, many of which vanished from the landscape and memory for much of the 20^th Century.

President of the NSW Wine Industry Association, David Lowe, praised Dr McIntyre's work.  "It is important to recognise the influence of the early winemakers and understand how this has shaped the NSW wine industry. 

More than this, the story of wine in early NSW is the foundation of Australian wine history. Julie's book is a must have for all winemakers and anyone who loves wine!" said David.

In his cover endorsement, noted wine critic James Halliday says First Vintage "...deserves a place on everyone's bookshelf." 

Availability:

Copies of "First Vintage" can be purchased on line at www.nswwine.com.au for $49.95 plus postage and handling

"First Vintage – Wine in colonial New South Wales" by Julie McIntyre is published by UNSW Press, 247 pages with colour.