Latitude 32 Appoints Acclaimed Winemaker Amy Blackburn

Latitude 32 Wines’ Winemaker, Amy Blackburn. Credit: Media Salt | Source: Latitude 32 Wines

Award-winning Hunter Valley winery Latitude 32 Wines has appointed experienced winemaker Amy Blackburn to lead its winemaking operations, marking an exciting new chapter for the growing winery.

Blackburn brings more than two decades of experience across some of Australia's leading wine businesses, with a career spanning premium regional winemaking in Coonawarra and the Clare Valley, alongside expertise in alternative grape varieties, contract winemaking, emerging wine styles, and low- and no-alcohol wine

production.

Founder Emma White said the appointment reflects an investment in the future of both Latitude 32 and the Hunter Valley. "The Australian wine industry doesn't need more pessimism, it needs more optimism, experimentation and innovation," she said.

"Consumers haven't fallen out of love with wine, they're simply drinking differently."

White said she wanted a winemaker who understands where the industry is heading while remaining deeply respectful of what has made the Hunter Valley one of the world's great wine regions. She added that Blackburn's varied background across different climates, varieties and production systems isn't about changing who Latitude 32 is but about continuing to evolve while remaining proudly Hunter Valley.

Blackburn joins Latitude 32 after senior winemaking roles with Brands Laira, Kirrihill Wines and Australian Vintage, where she led the company's low and no alcohol winemaking program. She's built a reputation for technical excellence and meticulous attention to detail, pairing scientific rigour with creative thinking.

"Every wine region teaches you something different," Blackburn said.

"I'm excited to bring those experiences to the Hunter Valley and work alongside a team that is passionate about honouring tradition while embracing innovation."

Since opening its cellar door in 2024, Latitude 32 has gained national recognition for both its wines and visitor experiences. Its estate-grown 2025 Edward Semillon was awarded Best NSW/ACT White Wine at the Australian Small Winemakers Show, while its Shiraz Pinot Noir blend, The Bros, earned national recognition through Young Gun of Wine. The winery has also turned heads with its innovative Enigma, a white wine made entirely from black grapes.

Blackburn will commence with Latitude 32 this month, overseeing winemaking across the winery's estate-grown portfolio. Latitude 32 Wines is an independently owned winery in Pokolbin, founded in 2021, guided by its philosophy of "Fun with Serious Intent."