Food and drink writers, along with members of the press, convened in London for the 2025 André Simon Awards, celebrating excellence in contemporary food and drink writing.
Chair Nick Lander emphasized that entries were assessed based on original research, educational value, readability, and quality of production, with this year’s awards receiving a record of over 160 submissions.
Drink Award Winner
The Drink Award was awarded to Andrew Caillard for The Australian Ark, a comprehensive three-volume work documenting the history of Australian wine from its inception in 1788 to the present. Caillard, a renowned wine author, auctioneer, and Master of Wine, dedicated 17 years to produce this extensive documentation, which is now available in multiple formats including paperback, hardback, and leather-bound editions.
Caillard described The Australian Ark as a captivating journey into Australia’s wine legacy, filled with daring and monumental achievements. Judge Dawn Davies MW praised the book’s depth and significance, declaring it a masterpiece that readers will revisit repeatedly.
A Unique Publishing Journey
Publisher Angus Hughson highlighted the significance of Caillard’s experience and writing style, considering it a "once in a generation" book. The publication was made possible through generous contributions from Australian wine producers and collectors, raising A$600,000, with total costs exceeding $1.2 million. Hughson noted the value of producing the book locally, despite higher costs, which involved meticulous work including choosing from 20,000 images to feature 1,200 in the final print.
From Australia, Caillard expressed his gratitude for receiving the André Simon Award, stating it validates his work as one of lasting importance. He credited his success to the support from his editorial team, family, friends, and the Australian wine community.
Other Notable Entries
The Drink Award shortlist also featured One Thousand Vines by Pascaline Lepeltier, which explores crucial questions about wine and redefines conventional understandings of viticulture. Davies recalled how beneficial the book would have been during her own studies for the Master of Wine.
Food Award Winner
The Food Award was claimed by Nicola Lamb for SIFT: The Art of Great Baking, highlighting its innovative approach to baking with accessible and scientifically-backed recipes. Assessors commended the book’s technical mastery and user-friendliness.
Additional awards included the John Avery Award for A Cheesemonger’s Tour de France by Ned Palmer and a Special Commendation for Perry: A Drinker’s Guide by Adam Wells.
For further insights into the awarded works, check out Amazon UK.