By James Atkinson
New South Wales Premier Barry O'Farrell has sensationally resigned this morning after being caught out lying over a $3000 bottle of 1959 Penfolds Grange he allegedly received as a gift.
Australian Water Holdings executive Nick Di Girolamo yesterday told the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) that he sent Premier O'Farrell the $3,000 bottle of Grange in 2011 to congratulate him on his election win.
But the Premier later told the inquiry he had no recollection of receiving the wine.
"Proof has not been presented that a bottle of 1959 Grange was ever delivered to my house," the Premier said.
However, ICAC was today presented evidence of a thank you card O'Farrell sent to Di Girolamo thanking him for the "wonderful wine".
"1959 was a good year, even if it is getting further away," the Premier's note read.
Announcing his resignation this morning, O'Farrell said he still couldn't recall receiving the gift.
"I can’t explain what happened to that bottle of wine. But I do accept that there is a thank you note signed by me and as someone who believes in accountability, in responsibility, I accept the consequences of my actions."
AWH is accused of corruptly using Sydney Water funds for political donations, executive salaries and various other expenses.