James Halliday

James Halliday is an iconic figure in the Australian wine industry, celebrated for his expertise as a wine critic, author, and vigneron. Born in 1938, Halliday began his career as a lawyer but quickly turned his passion for wine into a lifelong pursuit. In the 1970s, he co-founded Brokenwood Wines in the Hunter Valley and later Coldstream Hills in the Yarra Valley, both of which gained acclaim under his guidance.

As a writer, Halliday has authored over 80 books on wine, including the influential Halliday Wine Companion, an annual guide to Australian wine that has become a trusted resource for wine enthusiasts and collectors.

Halliday’s palate leans toward refined and balanced wines. He has expressed a particular fondness for classic Shiraz from regions like the Barossa Valley, elegant Pinot Noirs from the Yarra Valley, and structured Cabernets from Margaret River. Internationally, Burgundy and Bordeaux wines are among his personal favourites, reflecting his admiration for wines that balance complexity with finesse.

Here are some wines within our portfolio, that contain reviews and scores by James Halliday