2025 Giant Steps Pinot Noir, Yarra Valley

An opulent crimson purple. Explodes from the glass with its aromas of ripe cherries, raspberry coulis, lavender and spice. It's just so brightly fruited and juicy on the palate, too. Balanced acidity and tannins complete a superb and well-priced Yarra pinot to drink now and over the next three to four years. As good a Giant Steps entry point as I have tasted.

96 points Special Value Philip Rich for Halliday Wine Companion

Giant Steps has become one of Australia's most celebrated wineries, setting the benchmark for cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from the Yarra Valley. Founded by wine visionary Phil Sexton and today guided by acclaimed winemaker Melanie Chester, the winery is renowned for its meticulous vineyard sourcing and site driven philosophy. The Yarra Valley Pinot Noir is the cornerstone of the range, consistently delivering purity, finesse and the unmistakable character that has earned Giant Steps international acclaim.

The 2025 vintage provided excellent growing conditions across the Yarra Valley, with mild temperatures and a long, even ripening period producing fruit of exceptional balance and aromatic intensity. Drawn from a selection of the region's finest vineyards, the wine is crafted with gentle extraction and sensitive French oak maturation, allowing the elegance and complexity of the fruit to take centre stage.

The colour is a brilliant ruby red with vibrant crimson hues. Aromas of wild cherry, raspberry and red plum are intertwined with rose petal, five spice, forest floor and a subtle touch of whole bunch complexity. The palate is silky and beautifully detailed, combining bright red berry fruit with fine tannins, lively acidity and delicate savoury spice. Hints of tea leaf, cranberry and crushed stone emerge through a long, graceful finish that reflects the precision and energy of this outstanding vintage.

A superb match for roast duck, grilled quail, mushroom and thyme risotto, cedar plank salmon or roasted beetroot with whipped goat's cheese. Delicious from release, this elegant Pinot Noir will continue to evolve beautifully over the next eight to twelve years.