This guide investigates the regional characteristics and quality of viticulture in Australia and New Zealand during the early 1990s. James L. Halliday, a recognized authority on Australian wine, utilizes his extensive experience as a critic and winemaker to categorize producers and evaluate regional output. The text provides a systematic framework for understanding the emerging wine industries of the Southern Hemisphere, focusing on terroir, varietal performance, and producer reputation.

The text serves as a specialized reference for collectors and enthusiasts seeking a snapshot of the wine landscape in the early 1990s. Its focus on regional expertise and producer-specific data makes it a foundational resource for understanding the historical development of the Australian and New Zealand wine industries.