James Halliday is an unmatched authority on every aspect of the Australian wine industry. His winemaking has led him to sojourns in Bordeaux and Burgundy, and he has won a clutch of awards for his contributions to the industry, including the prestigious Maurice O’Shea Award. In May 2024, James retired from wine writing, leaving his beloved Wine Companion in the expert hands of the Halliday Tasting Team: Dave Brookes, Jane Faulkner, Jeni Port, Marcus Ellis, Mike Bennie, Philip Rich, Shanteh Wale, Toni Paterson MW and Head of Tasting, Katrina Butler. Each member brings a wealth of tasting, writing, and reviewing experience, ensuring the Companion remains the benchmark guide to Australian wine.