‘In a climate so favourable the cultivation of the vine may doubtless be carried to any degree of perfection’
– Captain Arthur Phillip, first Governor of New South Wales

Australia’s wine industry is as old as its European settlement – vine cuttings arrived with the First Fleet. Since then, different groups of migrants have introduced a host of new varieties and styles.

Wine! An Australian Social History looks at the influences that have shaped the industry, such as Federation, war and immigration.

This intriguing exhibition draws on our extensive collection of wine records, as well as personal recollections of people who have worked in the industry.

Focusing on four wineries around Australia, the exhibition shows how regional wine varieties have developed over the last 120 years. Items from the Noel Butlin Archives’ Lindemans Collection reflect changes in how the industry has produced wine and promoted itself.

Innovative and interactive displays – a life-sized ‘vine forest’ and ‘wine cellar’ – will tantalise your senses.

Wine! An Australian Social History is curated by Lisa Williams and designed by Exhibition Services. Attend, and delve into this fascinating aspect of Australian culture.