2024 Giant Steps Pinot Noir, Yarra Valley

A 50/50% mix of upper and lower Yarra estate and grower fruit. 30% whole bunches. A very bright crimson purple. Pretty and complex with aromas of red cherry skins and rhubarb together with some pink peppercorn spice and a light savoury edge. More approachable than the '23. As a young wine, the medium-bodied palate is spicy, silky and long. It'll probably age well but it's so good to drink now that there's no need to bother!

95 points Special Value Philip Rich winecompanion.com.au

Giant Steps Pinot Noir from the Yarra Valley is a bright and expressive red that captures the lift and elegance that define the region’s cool climate style. Crafted by winemaker Melanie Chester, this wine blends fruit from Giant Steps’ top vineyard sites including Applejack, Sexton and Primavera to create a Pinot Noir that is aromatic, detailed and wonderfully balanced.

The vineyards are all located in the cooler parts of the Yarra Valley, primarily the Upper Yarra where elevation and volcanic soils help produce fruit with natural acidity and fine tannin. Melanie Chester focuses on preserving site character and purity, working with handpicked fruit, wild fermentation and a mix of whole berries and whole bunches to build texture and aromatic complexity.

Fermentation takes place in open top fermenters with gentle plunging to avoid over extraction. The wine is then matured in French oak barriques with a small percentage of new oak to frame the fruit without overpowering its vibrancy.

In the glass, it opens with lifted aromas of wild strawberry, red cherry, rose petal, orange peel and subtle spice. The palate is silky and medium bodied with bright acidity, supple tannins and a long savoury finish laced with earthy detail and crushed herbs. It is a wine that shows finesse and quiet power with exceptional drinkability.

Perfect with roast duck, mushroom risotto or a simple plate of grilled salmon, this Pinot Noir is a beautiful example of modern Yarra Valley winemaking.