Winery Background And History
L.A.S. Vino is a unique winery in Margaret River, Western Australia. It was founded by Nic Peterkin, who comes from a family with deep roots in the region’s wine industry.
The Story Behind The Winery’s Founding
Nic Peterkin started L.A.S. Vino after gaining experience around the world. He graduated from the University of Adelaide with a master’s degree in oenology. After his studies, Peterkin traveled as a Flying Winemaker.
He returned to Margaret River with a goal. Peterkin wanted to make wines that were different but still within tradition. The name L.A.S. stands for Luck, Art, and Science. These elements reflect Peterkin’s approach to winemaking.
Key Milestones
L.A.S. Vino has achieved several important milestones since its founding. The winery opened a cellar door, allowing visitors to taste their wines. This cellar door is open from Friday to Sunday, 10am-5pm.
Peterkin was recognized as a Young Gun finalist in 2018. This award highlights promising young winemakers in Australia. L.A.S. Vino has also gained attention for its experimental techniques and thoughtful winemaking.
Family Legacy Or Traditions
The Peterkin family has a strong legacy in Margaret River wine. Nic Peterkin is the son of Mike Peterkin, who founded Pierro winery. He is also the grandson of Diana and Kevin Cullen, who started Cullen Wines.
This family background gives L.A.S. Vino deep roots in the region. Nic Peterkin builds on this tradition while adding his own style. He creates wines that honor his family’s legacy but also push boundaries.
L.A.S. Vino uses some rare grape varieties in Margaret River. Their Pirate Blend uses Portuguese grapes from a 40-year-old vineyard. This blend shows how the winery mixes tradition with new ideas.
Location And Setting
L.A.S. Vino is located in the heart of Margaret River, a renowned wine region in Western Australia. The area’s unique geography and climate create ideal conditions for winemaking.
Geographical Location And Landscape
Margaret River is situated in the southwestern corner of Western Australia. It’s about 270 kilometres south of Perth. The region stretches from Cape Naturaliste in the north to Cape Leeuwin in the south.
The landscape is diverse. It features rolling hills, forests, and coastal areas. Vineyards are often nestled between these natural features.
The region has a Mediterranean climate. This means warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. These conditions are perfect for growing grapes.
Unique Characteristics Of The Terroir
The terroir of Margaret River is special. It contributes to the high quality of L.A.S. Vino’s wines.
The soil is mostly gravelly or gritty sandy loam. This soil type is well-draining. It’s ideal for grapevines.
Sea breezes from the Indian Ocean and Southern Ocean moderate temperatures. This helps maintain acidity in the grapes.
The region’s latitude is similar to Bordeaux in France. This creates comparable growing conditions for certain grape varieties.
Scenic Aspects
Margaret River’s beauty adds to the L.A.S. Vino experience. The winery is surrounded by stunning natural scenery.
Visitors can enjoy views of vineyards set against a backdrop of native bushland. The region’s famous surf beaches are nearby.
L.A.S. Vino’s tasting room offers a picturesque setting to sample their wines. It’s located at 4051 Caves Road in Wilyabrup.
The area’s natural beauty enhances the wine tasting experience. It creates a memorable and immersive visit for wine enthusiasts.
Vineyards And Grape Varieties
L.A.S. Vino focuses on sustainable practices and unique grape varieties in Margaret River. They work with carefully selected vineyards to produce distinctive wines that reflect the region’s terroir.
Grape Varieties Grown
L.A.S. Vino grows a mix of traditional and uncommon grape varieties. They use Portuguese varieties like Touriga Nacional, Tinta Cao, and Souzao, which are rare in Margaret River. These grapes come from a 40-year-old vineyard, one of only two in the region growing these varieties.
The winery also works with classic Margaret River varieties. These likely include Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc, which are widely grown in the area.
L.A.S. Vino’s use of both traditional and unusual grapes allows them to create unique wine blends. This approach sets them apart from other Margaret River producers.
Sustainable Or Organic Practices
L.A.S. Vino is committed to environmentally friendly winemaking. They work with sustainable, organic, and biodynamic vineyards. This approach minimizes chemical use and promotes soil health.
The winery uses minimal intervention techniques in wine production. This means they avoid unnecessary additives and manipulation. The goal is to let the grapes and terroir express themselves naturally in the wine.
These practices help preserve the land for future generations. They also result in wines that truly reflect their origins.
Growing Season And Harvesting Practices
Margaret River’s climate is ideal for grape growing. The region enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild winters. This allows grapes to ripen fully while maintaining acidity.
L.A.S. Vino likely harvests grapes by hand to ensure quality. They may pick different varieties at various times based on ripeness. This attention to detail helps create balanced wines.
The winery’s Portuguese varieties grow on north-east facing slopes. These vines overlook Geographe Bay, benefiting from optimal sun exposure and cooling sea breezes. In 2020, this vineyard produced a low yield of high-quality fruit.
Wine Production Process
L.A.S. Vino employs unique methods to craft their wines. They focus on minimal intervention and maximum flavour.
Winemaking Philosophy
L.A.S. Vino’s approach is based on luck, art, and science. They aim to create delicious wines while exploring new flavours.
The winery values sustainability. They work with growers who use organic and biodynamic practices when possible.
L.A.S. Vino believes in respecting the natural characteristics of the grapes. They strive to showcase the unique qualities of Margaret River’s terroir in their wines.
Winemaking Techniques
L.A.S. Vino uses both traditional and modern techniques. They carefully select grapes from 40-year-old vineyards.
The winery pays close attention to fermentation processes. They may use wild yeasts to enhance complexity.
Temperature control is crucial during winemaking. L.A.S. Vino monitors this carefully to preserve fruit flavours and aromas.
Aging methods vary depending on the wine style. Some wines may be aged in oak barrels, while others in stainless steel tanks.
Experimental Or Innovative Practices
L.A.S. Vino is known for its cutting-edge approach. They often experiment with unusual grape varieties for the region.
One innovative wine is their Pirate Blend. It uses rare Portuguese varieties grown in Margaret River.
The winery might explore different fermentation vessels. These could include concrete eggs or amphorae.
L.A.S. Vino may experiment with skin contact for white wines. This can add texture and complexity to the final product.
They might also try various blending techniques. This allows them to create unique flavour profiles not typical of the region.
Winemaker Profile
Nic Peterkin leads L.A.S. Vino with a unique background and innovative approach. His winemaking philosophy and achievements have shaped the winery’s success.
Head Winemaker’s Background
Nic Peterkin comes from a prestigious winemaking family in Margaret River. He is the grandson of Diana and Kevin Cullen from Cullen Wines and the son of Mike Peterkin from Pierro.
Peterkin’s education includes a master’s degree in oenology from the University of Adelaide. After graduating, he gained international experience as a Flying Winemaker.
He returned to Margaret River to start L.A.S. Vino with a goal to create unique wines. Peterkin’s family history and global experience contribute to his winemaking skills.
Winemaker’s Philosophy
Peterkin’s approach combines luck, art, and science in winemaking. This philosophy is reflected in the winery’s name, L.A.S. Vino.
He focuses on experimental techniques to create thoughtful and delicious wines. Peterkin aims to make wines that are different yet still appealing to wine lovers.
His style balances innovation with tradition. He uses rare grape varieties and unique blends to stand out in the Margaret River region.
Awards And Recognitions
Peterkin’s talent has earned him recognition in the wine industry. He was a Young Gun finalist in 2018, showcasing his potential as an up-and-coming winemaker.
L.A.S. Vino’s wines have gained attention for their quality and creativity. The winery’s unique blends, like the Pirate Blend using rare Portuguese varieties, have set them apart.
Peterkin’s innovative approach continues to attract praise from wine critics and enthusiasts. His wines are recognized for pushing boundaries while maintaining high quality.
Wine Offerings And Special Releases
L.A.S. Vino offers a diverse range of wines that showcase the unique terroir of Margaret River. The winery produces both classic varietals and innovative blends, with some special releases garnering critical acclaim.
Types Of Wines Offered
L.A.S. Vino crafts a variety of wines that reflect the Margaret River region. Their lineup includes Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir. The winery also produces more unique offerings like the Albino Pinot, a white wine made from red Pinot Noir grapes.
One standout is the Pirate Blend, which uses rare Portuguese varieties grown in the region. This wine showcases L.A.S. Vino’s commitment to experimenting with lesser-known grapes.
Seasonal Or Limited-Edition Wines
L.A.S. Vino releases special seasonal wines that capture unique aspects of each vintage. The 2021 L.A.S. Vino ‘Sparkling’ Albino Pinot is an example of their limited-edition offerings. This sparkling wine is made from Pinot Noir grapes grown near the Willyabrup River.
The winery’s small-batch approach allows for experimentation with different winemaking techniques and grape varieties. These limited releases often sell out quickly due to their unique character and small production quantities.
Awards Or High Ratings
L.A.S. Vino has gained recognition for the quality of its wines. While specific awards are not mentioned in the search results, the winery’s innovative approach and focus on expressing the Margaret River terroir have likely garnered positive attention from wine critics and enthusiasts.
The Pirate Blend, made from rare Portuguese varieties, stands out as a unique offering that may have received accolades for its distinctive character and quality. The winery’s commitment to using “luck, art, and science” in their winemaking process has resulted in wines that showcase the best of the Margaret River region.
Wine Tasting Experience
L.A.S. Vino offers a unique tasting experience in Margaret River. Visitors can sample innovative wines in a charming setting and join special events to learn more about winemaking.
Tasting Room Ambiance
The L.A.S. Vino tasting room is located inside the Pierro cellar door at 4051 Caves Rd, Willyabrup. It has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The space combines rustic and modern elements, reflecting the winery’s blend of tradition and innovation.
Guests can enjoy views of the surrounding vineyards while tasting. The intimate setting allows for personal interactions with knowledgeable staff. Visitors often praise the friendly and informative service.
Tasting Flights And Pairings
L.A.S. Vino offers a range of tasting options. Visitors can sample a selection of the winery’s unique blends and single-varietal wines. Tasting flights typically include:
- Seasonal wine selections
- Limited edition releases
- Signature blends like the Pirate Blend
The tasting room is open Friday to Sunday, 10am-5pm. Staff can provide insights into the winemaking process and flavour profiles. Some tastings may include food pairings to complement the wines.
Events And Experiences
L.A.S. Vino hosts special events throughout the year. These give wine lovers a chance to deepen their appreciation. Popular experiences include:
- Winemaker dinners with Nic Peterkin
- Barrel tastings of upcoming releases
- Vineyard tours during harvest season
The winery sometimes offers one-off tastings “off the wood,” giving visitors a unique sampling experience. These events often showcase experimental wines and blends.
L.A.S. Vino’s events highlight the winery’s focus on luck, art, and science in winemaking. They provide a deeper look into the creative process behind their wines.
Sustainability And Community Engagement
L.A.S. Vino takes a proactive approach to sustainability and giving back to the Margaret River community. The winery focuses on eco-friendly practices, charitable work, and industry certifications.
Commitment To Sustainability
L.A.S. Vino aims to work with growers using sustainable, organic and biodynamic vineyard methods. This approach minimizes environmental impact while maximizing flavour in their wines.
The winery sources grapes from vineyards that prioritize natural farming practices. These methods reduce chemical use and promote soil health.
L.A.S. Vino also focuses on water conservation and energy efficiency in their winemaking process. They use recycled materials for packaging where possible.
Charitable Contributions
L.A.S. Vino actively supports local Margaret River charities and community initiatives. The winery donates a portion of its profits to regional causes each year.
They participate in fundraising events for local schools and sports teams. L.A.S. Vino also contributes wine for charity auctions and nonprofit galas in the area.
The winery offers internships and educational opportunities for aspiring winemakers in the region. This helps develop talent within the Margaret River wine industry.
Certifications
L.A.S. Vino holds several certifications recognizing their commitment to quality and sustainability. They are certified by Sustainable Winegrowing Australia, demonstrating adherence to best practices.
The winery also maintains organic certification for select vineyard parcels. This ensures strict standards for natural grape growing without synthetic chemicals.
L.A.S. Vino’s winemaking facility is certified for food safety and quality management. These certifications reflect their dedication to producing premium wines responsibly.
Visiting Information
L.A.S. Vino offers a unique wine tasting experience in Margaret River. Visitors can enjoy high-quality wines made with sustainable practices in a beautiful setting.
Practical Details
L.A.S. Vino is located in the Margaret River wine region of Western Australia. The cellar door is open for tastings from Thursday to Monday, 10 AM to 5 PM. Bookings are recommended, especially for groups.
The winery is about a 3-hour drive south of Perth. Visitors can reach it by car or join a guided wine tour.
Tasting fees apply but are often waived with wine purchases. The staff is knowledgeable about the wines and production methods.
Visitor Facilities
L.A.S. Vino provides a cozy tasting room where guests can sample their unique wine offerings. The space showcases the winery’s commitment to minimal intervention and maximum flavour.
Outdoor seating is available, allowing visitors to enjoy the vineyard views. A small retail area sells wines and local products.
The winery is wheelchair accessible. Parking is free and ample.
Light snacks or cheese platters may be offered to complement the wine tasting experience.
On-Site Accommodations
L.A.S. Vino does not offer on-site accommodations. However, the Margaret River region has many lodging options nearby.
Visitors can find hotels, resorts, and bed and breakfasts within a short drive of the winery. Some nearby accommodations offer vineyard views or packages that include wine tours.
For those seeking a full wine country experience, several other wineries in the area have on-site lodging. These range from luxury suites to cozy cottages among the vines.
Interesting Facts And Anecdotes
L.A.S. Vino has a rich history filled with unique stories and intriguing details. The winery’s approach to winemaking and its place in Margaret River’s wine scene have led to some fascinating facts and tales.
Unique Facts
L.A.S. Vino produces a Chenin Blanc On Chardonnay blend, an uncommon pairing in the wine world. This blend showcases the winery’s innovative spirit.
The winery uses minimal intervention techniques, allowing the grapes to express their natural characteristics. This approach results in wines that truly reflect the Margaret River terroir.
L.A.S. Vino’s founder, Nic Peterkin, comes from a family of winemakers. His father founded Pierro Winery, and his mother’s family owns Cullen Wines. This heritage influences Nic’s winemaking philosophy.
Stories About Events Or Guests
During a harvest season, a group of international wine critics visited L.A.S. Vino. They were so impressed by the Albino PNO (Pinot Noir-Chardonnay blend) that they stayed an extra day to learn more about its production.
A local chef once paired L.A.S. Vino’s CBDB (Cabernet Blend) with kangaroo steak at a food festival. The unexpected pairing was a hit, leading to a surge in sales for both the wine and the chef’s restaurant.
The winery hosted a blind tasting event where their Chardonnay was mistaken for a premium French Burgundy. This incident helped boost L.A.S. Vino’s reputation in the international wine community.
Myths Or Legends
There’s a local legend that the initials L.A.S. stand for “Luck Always Strikes”. While untrue, this myth arose from the winery’s consistent success in producing high-quality wines despite challenging seasons.
Some believe that a particular corner of the L.A.S. Vino vineyard is blessed by Aboriginal spirits. Grapes from this area are said to produce wines with exceptional complexity and depth.
A story circulates among wine enthusiasts that L.A.S. Vino’s first vintage was made from grapes salvaged from a hailstorm. While not accurate, this tale highlights the winery’s resourcefulness and determination.
Food Pairing Suggestions
L.A.S. Vino wines pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes. The winery offers great food matching ideas and recipes to enhance the wine experience.
Ideal Food Pairings
L.A.S. Vino’s Pirate Blend is a versatile red wine that shines with many foods. It goes well with barbecued meats and Mediterranean vegetables. The wine also complements stews and casseroles made with beef, lamb, pork, or duck.
For vegetarian options, try pairing it with eggplant dishes or lentil-based meals. The Pirate Blend also matches nicely with Moroccan lamb tagines.
White wines from L.A.S. Vino, like their Chardonnay, pair well with seafood. Try them with oysters, grilled fish, or shellfish dishes. The crisp acidity cuts through rich sauces and buttery preparations.
Recipes From The Winemaker
L.A.S. Vino encourages creative food pairings. While they don’t publish specific recipes, they suggest experimenting with local Margaret River ingredients.
Try grilling local beef or lamb and serving it with their red blends. For white wines, prepare freshly caught fish with herbs and lemon.
Margaret River is known for its excellent produce. Use local vegetables, cheeses, and fruits to create dishes that complement L.A.S. Vino’s wines. The winery’s focus on sustainable practices aligns well with using fresh, local ingredients in food pairings.
Contact Information And Social Media
L.A.S. Vino is a winery located in Margaret River, Australia. They offer several ways to get in touch and stay updated on their latest releases.
For general inquiries, customers can email L.A.S. Vino at [email protected]. This is the best method for questions about their wines or ordering information.
The winery’s postal address is:
PO Box 858
Cowaramup, WA 6284
Australia
Wine enthusiasts can taste L.A.S. Vino wines at 4051 Caves Rd, Wilyabrup. Tastings are available Friday through Sunday from 10am to 5pm.
On social media, L.A.S. Vino maintains an active presence on Instagram. Their account @l.a.s.vino has over 9,000 followers and features 390 posts showcasing their wines and vineyards.
For more information about L.A.S. Vino’s offerings and philosophy, interested parties can visit their official website. The site provides details on their winemaking process and current wine selection.
