If wine writers were a grand cru vineyard, James Halliday AM would surely be its most revered old vine — deep-rooted, profoundly influential and still producing outstanding results after decades of service.
And so, it is with great pleasure (and, no doubt, a raised glass or two) that the Institute of Masters of Wine (IMW), in association with db, has named Halliday as the recipient of its 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award.
A titan of the Australian wine landscape
This award, presented at Vinexposium’s V d’Or by db's editor-in-chief Patrick Schmitt MW and IMW chair Rod Smith MW, celebrates an individual who has significantly advanced the wine world through vision, determination and innovation. Halliday, an undisputed titan of the Australian wine industry, has done just that — and then some.
Spanning over 55 years, his career as a writer, critic, winemaker, and judge has not only shaped Australian wine but propelled it onto the global stage. Co-founding Brokenwood Wines in 1970 and Coldstream Hills in 1985, Halliday demonstrated an astute understanding of terroir long before it became a fashionable buzzword. He has chaired judging panels at major competitions worldwide, scooped up two James Beard Awards and authored or contributed to over 80 books since 1979. His Annual Wine Companion, launched in 1986, remains the definitive authority on Australian wine, guiding both professionals and consumers with the same unerring palate.
A toast from his peers
On receiving the award, Halliday expressed his gratitude: “I am deeply honoured that the membership of the Institute has voted I should receive this Award in 2025, thus joining a very distinguished list of prior recipients from all corners of the globe.”
Patrick Schmitt MW paid tribute to Halliday’s extraordinary influence: “Such has been the influence of this remarkably prolific and influential wine critic that no mention of Australian wine quality seems complete without his opinion.”
Rod Smith MW, IMW chair, added: “It is with the greatest pleasure and pride that I present this well-deserved award to the legend that is James Halliday.”
A ceremony in absentia, but in good hands
Though unable to attend the ceremony in person, Halliday entrusted last year’s recipient, Jancis Robinson OBE MW, with the honour of accepting the award on his behalf. She quipped, “It was a great honour to be able to accept this award on behalf of someone I have known and admired for decades.”
A legacy of excellence
The IMW Lifetime Achievement Award has, since its inception in 2005, recognised some of the most esteemed figures in the wine industry. Previous honourees include:
2005 – Robert Mondavi
2007 – Marchese Piero Antinori
2011 – Jean-Michel Cazes
2012 – Olivier Humbrecht MW
2013 – Baroness Philippine de Rothschild
2015 – Hugh Johnson OBE
2016 – Mark Savage MW
2017 – Miguel A. Torres
2019 – Paul Symington
2024 – Jancis Robinson OBE MW
With Halliday now added to this illustrious list, the wine world raises its collective glass to a man whose influence will be felt for generations to come. Here’s to you, James — long may your tasting notes continue to guide, educate and inspire.
