February 18, 2026

From Soil to Sip

Emma and David White, Wine Country Innovators.

Story Laura Jacket

When Emma and David White left behind their high-powered corporate careers in Sydney to plant roots in the Hunter Valley, they weren’t just chasing a tree change, they were fulfilling a lifelong passion.

Originally from the UK, the couple arrived in Australia in 2000 on a two-year secondment as accountants.

“We were only supposed to stay for two years,” Emma laughs.

“But we fell in love, with Australia, and with wine.”

Unlike many newcomers who flock to Australia’s coastline, the Whites spent their weekends exploring the country’s world-class wine regions.

“The Hunter was the first we ever visited. It sparked our passion, and 20 years later, we bought our first vineyard here. It felt like coming full circle.”

In 2018 the pair purchased an established vineyard, with no cellar door, no brand, and no pretence.

“We wanted to do things differently,” Emma explains.

“There’s a lot of tradition and family heritage in the wine world. As newcomers to the industry, we wanted Latitude 32 to be fresh, approachable, and grounded in real passion.”

The name itself is a nod to geography.

“We’re based on the 32nd latitude, a geographic coordinate which runs through many of the world’s great wine regions.

“Our philosophy is that it all starts with the land.”

“As accountants, it was our logical, nerdy way of honouring our sense of place.”

Their first vintage launched in 2019, but Emma is the first to admit the journey hasn’t been without its challenges.

COVID delayed the delivery of crucial French oak barrels, building costs for their original cellar door plans doubled, and DA approvals dragged on for years.

“It was a test. But we’re not the type to give up or do things by halves.”

In early 2023, the Whites decided to go all-in and acquired the former Mistletoe Winery, complete with a cellar door, premium vines and onsite winery facilities.

“Every vintage tells you something about the land and the year it was born.”

It was the leap that took Latitude 32 from concept to full-fledged estate. The property is now home to their signature wines, tastings, and even breakfast hampers enjoyed among the vines. Emma’s approach to winemaking is authentic and fresh.

“We don’t aim to make the same wine every year.

“Wine should reflect the season. Vintage variation is something to be embraced, not hidden.”

With a focus on regenerative viticulture and a pending sustainability certification, the Latitude 32 ethos is about more than what’s in the glass.

“Our philosophy is that it all starts with the land.”

Emma works closely with winemaker Adam Holmberg, whose global pedigree includes Tyrrell’s, Leogate, and vintages in Napa, Sonoma, New Zealand, and Europe. Emma says.

“He shares our innovative streak,”

“We’re not afraid to try something new.”

One such creation is The Enigma, a white wine made entirely from Pinot Noir grapes.

“It looks like a white, but it’s made like a red. It’s completely clear, but 100% Pinot. People love the surprise.” Latitude 32 also bucks tradition in its lasting experiences.

Yes, there are cheese boards and chocolates, but also dumplings and wine, champagne breakfasts, and vineyard picnics at sunrise.

“Why shouldn’t you be able to enjoy a breakfast wine?” Emma says.

Their original vineyard now includes five-bedroom accommodation, providing guests with the ultimate vineyard escape.

The pair also has plans for future expansion, more varietals, sustainable practices, and continued international growth, particularly in the UK.

“Selling our wine back home to friends and family in the UK is a surreal, full-circle moment,” says Emma.

Despite her playful tone and sharp business acumen, it’s clear Emma takes her craft seriously.

“Wine isn’t just about alcohol in a bottle. It’s a story, a time capsule. Every vintage tells you something about the land and the year it was born.”

For Emma and David, Latitude 32 isn’t just a business. It’s the realisation of a dream they once spoke of over countless glasses of wine.

“Everyone talks about ‘from grape to glass,’” Emma says.

“But for us, it truly begins in the soil, and ends in the stories shared over every sip.” 

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