Giant Steps Yarra Valley Chardonnay 2023
The Wine
Sourced from five prominent vineyards owned or managed by Giant Steps: Sexton, Gruyere Farm, Tarraford, Applejack, and Wombat Creek. This blend is crafted for earlyenjoyment without sacrificing quality, offering a glimpse into the Yarra Valley's seasonal character.
Mel Chester continues the legacy of Steve Flamsteed, selecting hand-picked, whole-bunch pressed fruits. The wine undergoes naturalfermentation in 500L French oak puncheons, with 15% being new, and employsindigenous yeasts. While a fraction experiences malolactic fermentation, theemphasis remains on the cuvee's freshness and purity each year
Characterized by a cool and prolonged ripening period, the 2023 vintage boasts intense flavors and a lively acidity. This release, while immediately enjoyable,promises to be one of the more exceptional vintages to age.
95 points Shanteh Wale, Wine Pilot ‘Intoxicating acidity and a kefir creaminess on the finish. A spray of saline and oak appears in its round shapes rather than toasty notes. Alive with energy and creeping unsuspecting power.’
95 points Philip Rich Halliday Wine Companion ‘Packs a punch on the saline, gently textured, gently chewy palate. Great stuff and the perfect entrée to the year's superb lineup of single-vineyard chardonnays.’
The Details
Variety - Chardonnay
Country - Australia
Region - Victoria
Sun Region - Yarra Valley
Extra - Screwcap
Year - 2023
Volume - 750ml
About the Wine Maker 
In 1997, Phil Sexton seeking exception cool climate terroir journeyed to the Yarra Valley seeking high altitudes, ancient soils, exposed slopes, consistent rainfall, and the cool to cold nighttime temperatures moderated by a gentle breeze from the protective mountain ranges. His goal was to cultivate exceptional Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes to produce wines of finesse and purity. Phil subquentl identified and secured some exceptional and varied expositions.
In 2003 Steve Flamsteed was appointed Chief Winemaker has been crafting a series of Single Vineyard wines that encapsulate the essence of each location. In 2021, the highly skilled Melanie Chester came on board as the new head of winemaking and viticulture, heralding a thrilling new era for this top-tier producer.
