Giant Steps Yarra Valley Pinot Noir 2023
The Wine
The Yarra Valley Pinot Noir is the perpetually excellent entry point to Mel Chester's highly acclaimed Giant Steps range. This is a superb entry point into the world of premium Yarra Pinot Noir, with fruit sourced from the Sexton, Applejack, Tarraford and Primavera vineyards. It's made with around 40% whole bunches and meticulous attention to detail, for which Chester has become renowned. Unfined and unfiltered, too.
Aromatic red fruits, good refreshing mid-palate and a light, earthy grip on the finish. If you want to get familiar with this stellar Yarra Valley producer, this is the best place to start.
96 points Philip Rich, Halliday Wine Companion ‘A bright crimson red. After a few good few swirls, aromas of ripe raspberries, black cherries, wild herbs and some crushed violets soon emerge. The palate, though, doesn't need much coaxing, and this silken, sappy wine has excellent depth and persistence.’
The Details
Variety - Pinot Noir
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.