He was a bay stallion with good conformation that was bred by Emirates Park (Vic) Pty Ltd. Encosta de Lago is by Fairy King (USA) a brother to Sadler's Wells, who has sired over 400 winners that have won over A$54.3 million.

His dam, Shoal Creek (by Star Way (GB)), is a half-sister to Flying Spur and great granddaughter of the famous Northern Dancer mare, Fanfreluche (USA).

Shoal Creek has produced four named foals which included: Encosta de Lago had two race starts for 2 thirds in the VRC Maribyrnong Plate [G2] and the Listed, MRC Debutant Stakes for $12,600 in prizemoney.

Prior to the running of the G2 MVRC Bill Stutt Stakes over 1,600 metres at Moonee Valley Encosta de Lago returned a test over the legal limit to the performance-enhancing substance TC02, or bicarbonate, commonly called a milkshake.

"[3] When Encosta De Lago retired from racing in 1997 he stood at Blue Gum Farm, Euroa, Victoria for an introductory fee of $8,500, which increased to $38,500 in 2003.

[8][9][10] Some of his most successful G1 or G2 winning progeny includes: Encosta De Lago's first northern hemisphere bred yearling sold to leading trainer, Bob Baffert at the Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Sale for US$500,000.