The Viticultural Society of Victoria is Australia’s oldest wine society, founded in 1905 as an industry body by growers and merchants. This was a time when anti-drink campaigners, government neglect and the spread of the vine disease grape phylloxera threatened production. Victoria had been the leading Australian colonial producer with a promising export trade. In time the viticultural society became an influential luncheon club with a celebrated cellar. Today the society’s cellar holds over 3,000 bottles.

The Viticultural Society meets monthly where brackets of wine are masked and served alongside matching food. Members are asked to comment on the wines in as much detail as possible. This is followed by an open table discussion about the wines. This format enhances members appreciation and knowledge of wines styles and wine origins.