The Australian Ark is a definitive three volume work on the history of Australian wine from 1788 to the present day.

This eagerly anticipated book has been written by Andrew Caillard MW, who is well known in Australian and international wine circles for his work as an auctioneer, expert, and writer. The Australian Ark, which has taken almost two decades to research and write, will be the most sought-after book on Australian Wine for this generation and the next.

The scope of the work, comprising over 340,000 words, is genuinely astonishing. Drawing on thousands of sources from original First Fleet records to early Australian family archives and newspapers, Caillard’s words bring to life countless stories, many that have simply been forgotten over the decades, supported by over 400 illustrations, some of which have been drawn from the archives of Australia’s most famous wineries.

The Australian Ark is, however, more than simply a history of Australian wine – it offers a window into Australia’s social, political and economic history and its impact on the wine industry. It also documents key wineries, institutions and individuals that have moulded our industry into what it is today. Comprising three volumes and covering Australian wine history from the start of European settlement through to the current day, The Australian Ark is a book for the ages and a must-have reference for wine professionals, aficionados, and fans of history.

The Australian Ark is also the product of a unique collaboration between local publishers, prominent Australians and leading wineries. It will be independently co-published by The Vintage Journal and Sydney-based Longueville Media with local talent, production and materials. It promises to redefine the world’s impression of Australia’s fine wine ambitions from the earliest days of white settlement and highlights extraordinary visions and achievements while laying fresh new groundwork for storytellers, marketers, students, and wine professionals.

“The Australian Ark captures [Andrew Caillard’s] enthusiasm for all the struggles, ingenuity and imagination that has gone into putting Australian wine on the tables of the world”. – Geoffrey Robertson AO KC, human rights barrister, academic, author and broadcaster.

“I have read the manuscript and it is not only an important addition to the canon of wine literature but also a gripping story told with skill and imagination. Andrew Caillard has carried out years of meticulous research to bring to light the story of Australian wine.” – Jane Anson, author of Inside Bordeaux.

“Caillard’s The Australian Ark is an important work, both in its scope and detail, and contains essential knowledge for those who seek to understand where we have come from and where we are heading.” – Michael Hill Smith AM MW.

The Australian Ark is now available for pre-sales to the wine industry and friends. Without the support of a large publisher, this will be the only opportunity to purchase a piece of Australian wine history with a trade discount including a variety of options, such as paperback, hardback as well as linen and leather bound Collector’s Editions. There is also an opportunity to order bespoke branded copies of The Australian Ark with personalised imagery and artwork. Bulk purchasing rates are available for gifts or to sell The Australian Ark in various formats through cellar doors and retailers. The Australian Ark is also operating as a not-for-profit project and all surplus proceeds will be steered into a fund to sponsor research and further publications on the storied history of Australian wine.

“By supporting this project as a pre-release buyer, you will help us to raise funds for future research and achieve our goal of making a big difference to the awareness of Australian wine and its history at home and overseas, now and for years to come.” – Andrew Caillard MW, author.

To secure your copies of The Australian Ark, visit australianark.com to receive your trade pre-sales discount. Buyers will be charged a non-refundable deposit of 20% on orders with the remainder invoiced later in the year. Orders close 15 March for delivery in October or November 2023.

View The Australian Ark Overview

Click here to secure your copy of The Australian Ark