But one such man, wine critic James Halliday, has done just that. What sets his latest project, 1001 Wines Under $20, apart is that it averts its gaze from the top shelf. Indeed, Halliday recognises that sometimes you just wanted to stroll down to the corner shop and pick up a bottle to take to a friend’s or share over dinner at home. You’d like something nice, but would prefer to hand over an orange note rather than a yellow one. So Halliday has compiled a few options for us, 1001 in fact.

1001 Wines Under $20 is a comprehensive guide to cheap wine in Australia. It is as clear and concise as the white pages and as deserving of a shelf spot near your favourite cookbook.

As the internet and Google culture blossoms, it’s easy to forget the rigour that goes into making a solid reference guide. Penned by a long-standing expert, this sturdy information vault surpasses the best of Wikipedia.

The layout and content of Halliday’s book is authoritative to say the least. It’s ordered by variety with a clear contents page that allows the reader to quickly thumb to chapters on Chardonnay or Shiraz. Each section is introduced with a brief overview and the wines are given a rating out of 100, with most ranging from 87 to 95. Price, cap-type and alcohol percentage are all delivered succinctly before a brief tasting note on the drop.

Whether you're a red, white, sparkling or sweet lover (or all of the above), Halliday has you covered, from the popular to the obscure.

Like a trusty well-read friend, 1001 Wines is good for a spot of advice or a longer reading if you have the time. It’s the perfect companion to a quality drop that won’t empty your wallet.

1001 Wines Under $20 is published by Hardie Grant and available from bookstores around Melbourne.