Media release
The most recognised and respected name in the Australian wine industry is undeniably James Halliday. In the face of a challenging year for the industry, Halliday is leading new initiatives and innovations to support local wineries and winemakers at a time when they need it most.
Angie Bradbury, Chair of Wine Victoria says “James is an absolute force of nature and has had, and will continue to have, an enormous positive influence on Victorian wine at home and abroad. James’s commitment to storytelling and sharing the depth and breadth of our incredible industry is something I know that everyone connected to wine recognises and applauds. We look forward to seeing where this next chapter of an already outstanding career will take this giant of wine.”
Last week, The Cellardoor Challenge launched a new Social Winery Directory. The directory features over 500 social media posts from wine consumers. A key feature is the community’s reviews and recommendations of their favourite wines and wineries, encouraging everyday wine drinkers to try new wineries and their wines.
“The Junovate team has an unparalleled pedigree in wine and a deep commitment to the future of the industry, including promoting small cellar doors in regional Australia. We are excited to connect people with knowledge and advice to buy and drink wines they love.” says Halliday.
Further announcements will be made soon on future projects and developments for James Halliday.
“Every change is a beginning, and I’m excited for this new chapter” he says.
ABOUT:
James Halliday
James is Australia’s foremost observer of and commentator on wine. He has written, or contributed to, over 70 books (some translated into five languages), and currently writes for The Weekend Australian. He has won numerous awards and prizes, the most significant the 1995 Maurice O’Shea Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Wine Industry, the James Beard Award (twice), Julia Child Award and Louis Roederer Award. The annual Halliday Wine Companion, published by Hardie Grant Publishers, is Australia’s best-selling wine book.
James was a senior wine show judge for over 30 years. The annual Australia-wide Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon Challenges bear his name, as does the trophy for Best Pinot Noir at the Royal Melbourne Wine Awards. He co-founded Brokenwood (Hunter Valley) in 1970, and founded (with wife Suzanne) Coldstream Hills (Yarra Valley) in 1985; he was an executive winemaker for 37 years.
In 2010 James was made a Member of the Order of Australia in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List for his contribution to the wine industry.
Junovate
Junovate is a global leader in advanced technology solutions for the wine industry, revolutionising the way the consumer can choose wine. Their solutions and services include virtual assistants, AI voice-enabled websites and business advisory service enabling wineries, retailers, restaurants, regional wine tourism organisations and wine event specialists to market their wines and promotional opportunities to consumers directly on their devices.
The Cellardoor Challenge
Our mission is to promote over 500 wineries and 1,000 wines in 180 days and encourage wine lovers to visit and buy direct from wineries to support local businesses.
#CellardoorChallenge
Facebook: @cellardoorchallenge
Instagram: @cellardoorchallenge
CONTACT:
For interviews, images or further information, please contact:
Honi Rosenwax – 0402 032 003 | honi@arize.com.au
Amie Bracken – 0491 216 319 | amie@arize.com.au