Giant Steps Pinot Noir 'Applejack Vineyard' 2023

Originating from Australia in the Victoria region, specifically within the Yarra Valley GI appellation, Giant Steps Pinot Noir 'Applejack Vineyard' 2023 represents an exceptional, single vineyard, and highly fragrant expression of cool climate Australian Pinot Noir. Founded in 1997 by Phil Sexton, Giant Steps is widely celebrated as a pioneer in single site viticulture in the Yarra Valley. The Applejack Vineyard, planted in 1997 in the Upper Yarra sub-region, sits at a high elevation of 300 metres on steep, sun-drenched, east-facing slopes composed of deep, friable red basalt clay soil. Under head winemaker Melanie Chester, the winemaking philosophy prioritizes minimalist intervention, utilizing hand harvesting, 40% whole-cluster inclusion, gravity-fed fermentation with indigenous yeasts, and 8 months of maturation in French oak puncheons (20% new). The result is a luminous, perfume-driven Pinot Noir that balances ethereal floral aromatics, spicy structure, and vibrant cool climate acidity.

Wine Description

The wine presents a brilliant, clear light ruby red colour with translucent garnet reflections along the rim. An expressive, highly perfumed bouquet opens with noble aromas of wild red cherry, loganberry, red plum, and crushed raspberry, interwoven with sophisticated notes of whole-cluster stem spice, dried rose petals, subtle forest floor, star anise, and toasted cedar. On the palate, it is light-to-medium bodied, silken, and energetic, delivering concentrated flavours of red berries, pomegranate, and chalky mineral earth, all supported by a bright, mouthwatering spine of natural cool climate acidity. Framed by fine-grained, sinewy tannins and a supple, seamless mid-palate structure, it concludes with a long, persistent finish marked by lingering red fruit, savory spice, and a clean mineral grip. Composed of 100% Pinot Noir, this 2023 release offers an optimal drinking window of 2024–2035. Stylistically, it effortlessly combines Upper Yarra elevation, intoxicating whole-bunch aromatics, and refined structural tension.