I’ve referred to it elsewhere in this issue, but it’s worth taking a longer look at the 1999 issue of Langton’s Australian Fine Wine Investment Guide. This book’s principal role is to provide the best printed resource of Australian wine prices. Furthermore, it presents Andrew Caillard’s very interesting perspective on many issues related to Australian wine, especially those concerned with making money on it as an investment. With provocative headings like ‘Media Misunderstand Market’ and ‘The Decline in Influence of The Wine Show System’, Caillard’s prose almost approaches the outspoken nature of another of my favourite reads, the Mount Mary newsletter. Few could deny his right to predict future trends on the auction market, since through such vehicles as the Langton’s Classification and the tips it offers concerning likely future inclusion in the Classification, his company is certainly involved in setting them. This book is however typical of the professionalism of the Langton’s organisation and is simply an invaluable resource to anyone seriously involved in wine investment. Published by Media 21, it retails for $19.95.
