2017 Giant Steps Pinot Noir

Giant Steps rate the 2017 vintage as sensational. A cooler, longer than normal vintage allowed the grapes to ripen at an unhurried pace in ideal growing conditions, producing wines of incredible structure, detail and length. This entry level Pinot Noir had twenty percent whole bunch inclusion and was matured for 7 months in new (10%) and used French oak. Fruit was sourced from Giant Steps Applejack, Primavera, Sexton, Tarraford and Wombat Creek vineyards.

From a sensational vintage this deliciously supple and powerful Pinot is already incredibly moreish to drink now.

Semi translucent bright dark red colour with a vibrant crimson hue. Fragrant cherry and strawberry scents laced with violets are drawn from the glass with underlying faint dried clove, some meatiness and spicy cedar ensuing. Super delicious and possessing outstanding power yet with a light feel, the palate is redolent with ripe red to dark cherry and strawberry flavours. Elements of anise, subtle dried clove, meaty characters and spicy cedar also chime in to provide additional interest. A supple mouthfeel combines with fresh, but certainly not overtly bright or crunchy acidity and seamlessly integrated, refined tannins. Long conclusion of lightly spiced ripe cherries, strawberries, touches of anise, subtle dried clove infusions and meaty cedar. Judging by this early release there’s going to be some great things to come out of the 2017 Yarra Valley vintage.
Incredibly moreish to drink now this will also cellar well over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5%

Other Reviews....
Wild yeast open-fermented with 20% whole bunches, matured for 7 months in French oak (10% new), gravity bottled. Very good colour; the intensity of the aromas and flavours unfolding with the first sip stop you in your tracks. The whole bunch component is evident, but not dominant, simply one of many factors in shaping the flavour and texture of this lovely wine. Drink by 2037.
97 points
James Halliday - Australian Wine Companion