At a glance

Producer

Giant Steps

Region

Yarra Valley, Australia

Grape variety

Pinot Noir

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$45-$65

Tasting profile

Red cherry, raspberry, subtle spicy oak, forest floor notes

Evolution: Will gain evolved earthiness, dried herbs, and savory complexity with age

At peak: Complex bouquet combining bright red fruit, silky tannins, and tertiary notes

Structure

Acidity

Balanced to slightly elevated, providing freshness

Tannins

Fine-grained and supple

Alcohol

13.5% ABV

Aging potential

10-15 years, excellent structure for mid-term cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2027 to 2032

Optimal window

2024 to 2034

Current status

Approaching early maturity, youthful vibrancy

Current condition

Fresh with bright fruit and developing complexity

The wine’s vintage (2020) in the Yarra Valley was excellent for Pinot Noir with balanced ripeness and acidity. The Sexton Vineyard is renowned for producing structured, elegant fruit with great aging capacity, enabling a decade or more of cellar aging. The acid and tannin profile support a medium to long drinking window, reaching an aromatic and textural peak mid-to-late in its evolution.

Food pairing

Pairs beautifully with roasted duck, mushroom risotto, grilled salmon, or mildly spiced game dishes.

Serving

Serving temperature

14-16°C / 57-61°F

Decant

Yes (30-45 minutes) — To allow initially tight tannins and primary fruit to open up and show complexity

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Giant Steps employs minimal intervention techniques, cover cropping, organic composts, and water-efficient irrigation in Sexton Vineyard. They minimize chemical sprays and promote biodiversity.

Giant Steps is recognized for sustainable vineyard management adhering to local certification standards. Their efforts in natural vineyard practices, efficient water use, and reduced chemical inputs contribute to sustainability. Despite global export, they emphasize regional sourcing and eco-conscious packaging which lower overall carbon impact.