2024 Giant Steps LDR Pinot Noir Syrah, Yarra Valley

A bright ruby crimson. Aromas of brambly red fruits, light rose petal scents and a touch of spice. Even better on the light- to medium-bodied, brightly fruited, supple and balanced palate. Fine-knit tannins round out a wine that's designed to enjoy now but that will still be looking good three to four years from now.

93 points Special Value Philip Rich winecompanion.com.au

Giant Steps LDR Pinot Noir Syrah from the Yarra Valley is a fresh, aromatic red that playfully nods to the tradition of Côte Rôtie while keeping its feet firmly in cool-climate Australian soil. LDR stands for Light Dry Red, and this wine lives up to the name — a bright, energetic blend of Pinot Noir and Syrah that brings fragrance, spice and drinkability into perfect balance. It’s the kind of wine you want slightly chilled, served with friends and good food, and appreciated for its sheer vibrancy rather than weight.

Sourced from estate and grower vineyards across the Upper Yarra, the wine is fermented with indigenous yeasts, using whole berries and some whole bunch to enhance perfume and tannin. Aged in older French oak for a brief period, the focus is all on fruit purity, savoury detail and texture rather than oak influence.

In the glass, it opens with aromas of wild strawberry, raspberry, black pepper, rose petal and a subtle herbal edge. The palate is juicy and medium bodied, with silky tannins, crunchy red fruit, spice and a dry, fresh finish. The Syrah brings lift and tension, while the Pinot offers perfume and plushness. It’s quirky, elegant, and incredibly moreish.

Food pairing: perfect with charcuterie, grilled duck breast, beetroot salad, mushroom flatbread or barbecued quail. Also excellent with a wedge of Manchego or a picnic spread.

Cellar potential: best enjoyed young for its vibrancy, but will hold nicely for 3 to 5 years.