Wine production in Australia began almost as soon as the first British convicts landed there in 1788. The commercial production of wine on this continent did not begin until a British soldier named John Macarthur planted vineyards in New South Wales in the early 19th century.

Macarthur became one of the key individuals in the development of New South Wales as well as the production of wine in Australia. It is impossible, however, to discuss the foundation of Australia's wine industry without noting John Busby. Busby was a young Scottish immigrant to Australia who has become know as the "father of Australian wine". Busby collected information concerning wine growing from regions around the world and took his newly acquired expertise to Australia's Hunter Valley. The Hunter Valley quickly became one of Australia's leading wine regions. This grape filled valley still enjoys that reputation to this day.

Australians produce anything from a dry white to a stronger Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. The Australian wine industry of today consists of some of the world's leading winegrowers. Like California, Australia's climate allows for the cultivation of almost any variety of grape.

The Hunter Valley of Australia is quickly becoming the equivalent to the Napa Valley of California. While many Australian wines are still inexpensive as well as high in quality, their prices are on the rise. The good weather of Australia makes it a perfect place to cultivate grapes and her wines have become very noteworthy in the past century. The variety of wines produced on this continent promise much for Australia's future as a leading producer of fine wines in the decades to come.