Sam Coverdale and Emma Phillips purchased the property that would become Polperro Winery in 2013, and have spent the years since developing an impressive, multifunctional venue.
After stints in regional New South Wales and the south of France (where Sam learnt all about winemaking), the pair were ready to make a business leap of their own. They settled on Red Hill on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, as its coastal-country hybrid location was perfect for producing cool climate wines.
Fast forward to 2021 and Emma and Sam have levelled UP. The sprawling enterprise now encompasses two sites and hosts a biodynamic farm, cellar door, four luxury villas and a yoga studio! The most recent is the Polperro Farmhouse, a 1950s brick building now sympathetically updated with a contemporary interior renovation by Hecker Guthrie.
‘The house was in almost original condition with very little being done to it since 1950,’ says Emma. ‘She had beautiful bones and incredible feel, and was simply in desperate need of some love.’ The three-bedroom residence mirrors its location with a fusion of beach and country aesthetics, striking a balance between restored heritage detailing and new contemporary finishes that lift the space with texture and brightness.
Sam and Emma have paid attention to strengthening the outdoor amenities, adding an open fireplace, outdoor kitchen and fire-cooking facilities to ensure the farmhouse is just as inviting in summer as winter. Nestled between the working vineyard and biodynamic farm, the house sits in front of a pine forest and has the benefit of distant ocean views.
Many Little restaurant and the Amelie + Frank’s clothing boutique in the Red Hill village (a 20-minute walk from the winery estate) are also owned by and connected to the Polperro winery. It’s a one-stop destination!
