2024 Giant Steps Primavera Pinot Noir, Yarra Valley

From Lou Primavera's '01-planted vineyard at 300m on red volcanic soils in Woori Yallock. 35% whole bunches. A bright crimson red. This always highly seductive and perfumed wine has aromas of raspberries, orange peel and cranberries as well as a little musk stick and rose bush. There's a gentle succulence on the palate that's nicely balanced by the wine's supple tannins and fine-boned acidity. Long, lovely, now and over the next six to eight years.

97 points Philip Rich winecompanion.com.au

Giant Steps Primavera Vineyard Pinot Noir is a vivid, finely detailed expression of Yarra Valley Pinot Noir, drawn from one of the region’s most characterful cool climate sites. The Primavera Vineyard sits high in the Upper Yarra, where altitude, persistent breezes and lean volcanic soils deliver naturally low yields and long, even ripening. Giant Steps treat this vineyard with the same meticulous, site first philosophy that defines their top wines: hand harvesting, a thoughtful portion of whole bunches for aromatic lift and structure, wild fermentation in small open vessels and maturation in fine French oak to quietly frame the fruit.

The aromatics are expressive and energetic. Red cherry, raspberry and wild strawberry lead the way, followed by rose petal, cranberry and a bright line of spice from whole bunch inclusion. Beneath the fruit sits a cool savoury layer of forest floor, dried herbs and crushed stone that grounds the perfume and gives it depth. With time in the glass, notes of orange peel, gentle oak warmth and dried flowers begin to weave through.

The palate is supple yet precise, carrying bright red fruits across fine, chalky tannins that feel silky but purposeful. Flavours of cherry skin, redcurrant, pomegranate and subtle spice unfold in measured layers, supported by lively acidity that keeps the wine fresh and focused. The finish is long and mineral edged, with a quiet savoury grip that speaks clearly of site. It is beautifully drinkable now, yet six to ten years in the cellar will reveal deeper complexity, with truffle, sous bois and autumnal notes emerging over time.

A natural match for roast duck, mushroom dishes, chargrilled salmon, game birds, beetroot based plates or soft, earthy cheeses. Primavera Vineyard Pinot Noir shows Giant Steps at their most confident: expressive, precise and deeply connected to place.