Meet the Man Behind the Vine

At Irvine, we believe great wine begins in the vineyard - and no one knows the land quite like Peter Miles. With decades of hands-on experience and a deep respect for the region, Peter plays a vital role in shaping our wines from the ground up. We sat down with him to talk life among the vines, vintage challenges, and what makes Eden Valley truly special.

What drew you to work in the vineyard rather than the winery?
I’ve always loved being outdoors and working with my hands. There’s something deeply rewarding about growing something from the ground up. For me, the vineyard is where it all begins - great wine comes from great fruit, and that’s what motivates me every day.

How do you approach vineyard management - are there practices you’re especially passionate about?
Sustainability is a big focus. I believe in working with nature rather than against it, so we use minimal intervention wherever possible. That means caring for soil health, encouraging biodiversity, and really getting to know each block so we can bring out its best qualities.

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
Harvest, without a doubt. Seeing the fruit come in after months of hard work - especially after a challenging season - is the moment you feel proud. It’s proof that all the effort has been worth it.

What challenges do you face in the vineyard each season?
Every vintage has its own personality. Weather is the big unknown - heatwaves, frost, and even wind can cause real issues. But that’s also what makes it interesting. You have to adapt quickly, and often it’s those challenges that create wines with the most character.

How does Eden Valley’s unique terroir influence the fruit you grow?
Eden Valley has so much going for it. The elevation brings cool nights, which help the grapes retain their natural acidity. The soils are incredibly diverse too - from rocky to loamy - which means we see a wide range of flavours and structures across the vineyard.

Is there a particular block that produces standout fruit year after year?
Yes - there’s a small block of old-vine Shiraz that I have a real soft spot for. It’s low yielding but incredibly expressive. Every year it gives us fruit with depth and vibrancy that really captures the soul of the vineyard.

Peter’s care for the vines is the foundation of every bottle we produce. His deep connection to the land, the fruit, and the vintage is what makes our wines uniquely Eden Valley. Next time you pour a glass, you’ll know a little more about the hands that helped shape it.