Eastern Peake

located in Coghills Creek near Ballarat, Victoria, is a pioneering cool-climate winery founded in 1983 by Owen Latta's father, Daryl. As a generational family enterprise, it has a long-standing reputation for its commitment to biodynamic farming and traditional, classic winemaking. Unlike the more experimental Latta Vino label, Eastern Peake focuses on producing elegant, single-vineyard wines that are a pure expression of their unique terroir.

Winemaking Philosophy & Methods

Eastern Peake's philosophy is centered on the principle that the vineyard is the heart of the winery. Their methods are a testament to patience, tradition, and a deep respect for the land.

• Biodynamic Farming: The entire vineyard is Demeter-certified biodynamic. This holistic approach, practiced for over two decades, ensures the soil is vibrant and full of life, which translates directly into the quality and complexity of the fruit. They also have a no-irrigation policy, forcing the vines to dig deep for water, further concentrating the flavors.

• Viticulture: The vineyard is planted on deep volcanic red-brown soil, which provides excellent drainage and mineral content. Grapes are hand-picked at optimal ripeness to achieve a balance of acidity, fruit flavor, and low alcohol levels, a hallmark of cool-climate winemaking.

• Fermentation: All wines undergo a wild yeast fermentation, using only the natural yeasts present on the grapes and in the winery. This process is slow and gentle, allowing the wine to develop a greater sense of place and complexity.

• Additives & Filtration: Eastern Peake practices a no-fining, no-filtration policy. Sulfur is used in minimal amounts, if at all, ensuring the wines are as natural as possible.

• Aging & Maturation: The wines are aged in a combination of new and old French oak barrels, with an emphasis on using high-quality oak to support the wine without overpowering its natural character. The winery's cool cellar environment allows for a long, slow maturation process.

Grapes & Wines

Eastern Peake specializes in classic cool-climate varieties that thrive in the Coghills Creek region, producing wines with elegance, structure, and longevity.

• Pinot Noir: This is the flagship variety of the estate. The Pinot Noir is a complex and elegant wine with notes of bright red fruit, savory earthiness, and fine tannins, reflecting the volcanic soil of the vineyard.

• Chardonnay: The Chardonnay is known for its texture, complexity, and refreshing acidity. It's often aged in French oak, which gives it a subtle nutty character while maintaining the vibrant fruit and mineral core.

• Pinot Meunier: One of the few producers in Australia to make a still wine from this variety. The Pinot Meunier is a light-bodied, earthy, and aromatic red wine, often with notes of red berries and spice.

• "Longview" Range: This is a separate range of wines made from grapes sourced from the Estate and other quality vineyards in the region. These wines offer a different expression of the terroir while maintaining the classic Eastern Peake winemaking style.