{"title":"Giant Steps","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGiant Steps is firmly established among the Australian wine elite. It’s long been a quality-obsessed outfit, but if anything, its sale to Jackson Family Wines in '20 only sharpened the emphasis on quality. Single-vineyard chardonnay and pinot noir from across the upper and lower Yarra Valley are the foundation for the winery’s reputation, but really every winemaking excursion this winery takes has a habit of turning to gold. Long-term winemaker Steve Flamsteed, who is still involved, left the main winemaking post with the wines in impeccable shape; current head winemaker Melanie Chester has ensured that the changeover has been both seamless and positive. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e-CAMPBELL MATTINSON\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"2019-giant-steps-primavera-vineyard-d-pinot-noir-750ml","title":"2019 Giant Steps Primavera Vineyard Pinot Noir 750ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStored in warehouse cellar. Pickup at Sip \u0026amp; Cellars by appointment only. Please contact Jessica at 0481 986 158 at least one day in advance to arrange collection. Cheers!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCritic tasting note: \"This vintage of single-vineyard “Primavera\" Pinot is as vibrant as the vivid cherry hue suggests. It's a more delicate, drink-now drop than this producer's other single-vineyard Pinots. The wine explodes from the glass with red-berry and stalky cinnamon-bark aromas, followed by gentler dried herb, floral and warm stone notes. The palate is fresh and bright, with a well-threaded tug of textural tannins. Christina Pickard\" - 93\/100, Wine Enthusiast\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAbout The Wine\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePrimavera is an outlier in the Giant Steps Single Vineyard series.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis vineyard sits on red clay in the Upper Yarra, oddly a site that excels in warmer vintages. Red soils, undulating hills, the dedicated Lou Primavera tending it daily.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe wine released from Flamsteed in 2019 is incredibly floral and seductive - perhaps the softest and most sensual of the Pinot Noirs this year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStunning drinking now or for the cellar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout Giant Steps\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiant Steps is a premium Yarra Valley outfit founded by Phil Sexton located in the in the township of Healesville. Since appointing Steve Flamsteed as his head winemaker and eventual business partner, Sexton and Flamsteed have developed a reputation for producing some of the region's finest examples of single vineyard wines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the vineyard to the final bottled wine, every aspect of the Giant Steps process is geared towards making truly world-class wines. The focus is on what the Yarra does best - Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Shiraz\/Syrah and Bordeaux-variety blends - and showcasing the unique terroirs of some of the region's finest vineyards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor three years running and Spirit Magazine have named them as one of the Top 100 wineries in the world, and Flamsteed capped off an amazing run by being named Gourmet Traveller Wine's 2016 Winemaker of the Year, another jewel in the Giant Steps crown. Their ultra modern cellar door is one of the must-visit experiences for any wine tourist stopping through the Yarra Valley.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"JC FINE WINES","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45372239708375,"sku":null,"price":99.99,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0706\/8637\/6151\/files\/2019GiantStepsPrimaveraVineyarddPinotNoir.png?v=1719806364"},{"product_id":"copy-of-2019-giant-steps-primavera-vineyard-pinot-noir-750ml","title":"2022 Giant Steps Fatal Shore Pinot Noir 750ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eRegion: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCoal River Valley, Tasmania\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"subdetails\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"subdetail autocol\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eVintage Notes\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 2022 season in Tasmania started cold and wet, with delayed budburst and flowering due to cold weather. Plant growth was slow due to cool conditions all the way up until just prior to flowering, when some well-timed heat spurred the vines along. Flowering was late, but consistent, going though in two weeks. Lots of shoot and crop thinning was done throughout the season, as well as some extensive leaf plucking due to the cool conditions. It was a very mild summer with only two days over 33 degrees Celsius experienced at the vineyard, which meant a long and slow ripening. The grapes were picked late for our vineyard, coming in on 22nd of April.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"subdetail autocol\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eVineyard Notes\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLocation: Coal River Valley Aspect: North-east facing Size: 34 Hectares Planted: 1999 Soil type: Calcareous \u0026amp; Triassic sandstone Under vine: Mv6, D5V12 In our obsession with Single Vineyard Pinot Noirs from great Pinot growing areas around the world, we have gone as far south (and as cold) as you can go in this country. Despite the cool temperatures, the sunlight hours are long and intense and we are intrigued by the depth of palate and colour that is possible from this landscape. While it is made with the Giant Steps gentle winemaking approach, the result is clearly a world apart in terroir. The Pinot Noir from Nocton vineyard have amazing density and texture, with powerful weight and concentration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"subdetail autocol\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eWinemaking\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHand picked, straight into a refrigerated container parked on the vineyard. The fruit is then immediately driven to Devonport and sailed across Bass Strait so we receive it into the winery the following morning. Fruit was destemmed and cold soaked for three â€?four days in open oak vats and open stainless steel fermenters. The MV6 (from the top of the hill) was fermented as whole bunches in an oak fermenter. Both parcels were matured in French oak â€?25% new, 75% older â€?for eight months in 225L barriques D\u0026amp;J, Vicard and Taransaud. Racked to blend, no fining, no filtration. Bottled by gravity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"JC FINE WINES","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45372294562007,"sku":null,"price":79.9,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0706\/8637\/6151\/files\/giant_steps_fatal_shore.png?v=1721695078"},{"product_id":"copy-of-2017-giant-steps-tosq-vineyard-pinot-noir-750-ml","title":"2021 Giant Steps 'Tarraford Vineyard' Chardonnay 750ml","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"tasting-notes\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"tasting-notes__items__2 noBorder\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"grid-setting context-area\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout The Wine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis Chardonnay comes from the iconic Tarraford vineyard in the Yarra. Located in a sheltered valley, this gorgeous vineyard has a distinctly cooler microclimate than its neighbouring sites.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's taut and crunchy, citrus fruit abundant with a delicious savoury oatmeal character on the back end.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEarlier drinking and less dense than its Chardonnay compatriots it is another knockout wine from the Giant Steps team.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"grid-setting context-area\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout Giant Steps\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiant Steps is a premium Yarra Valley outfit founded by Phil Sexton and located in the in the township of Healesville. Since appointing Steve Flamsteed as his head winemaker and eventual business partner, Sexton and Flamsteed have developed a reputation for producing some of the region's finest examples of single vineyard wines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2021 the wonderful Melanie Chester joined the team as the new head winemaker - the future sure is bright at Giant Steps!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the vineyard to the final bottled wine, every aspect of the Giant Steps process is geared towards making truly world-class wines. The focus is on what the Yarra does best - Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Shiraz\/Syrah and Bordeaux-variety blends - and showcasing the unique terroirs of some of the region's finest vineyards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePALATE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eChardonnay with high natural acids (and low pH) expressing itself through its characteristically long palate, fine tight structure and a zesty lemon\/grapefruit finish.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eREGION NOTES\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLocated in a protected valley, Tarraford Vineyard has a discreet microclimate that is cooler than neighbouring sites. A diversity of aspect and clone provides multifaceted winemaking opportunities. Although located in a warmer part of the valley, the Chardonnay slope is south facing.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVINIFICATION\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e100% hand picked. Whole bunch pressed. The juice was then transferred directly to barrel by gravity with no settling, taking full gross lees. Fermented in eight 500L French oak puncheons. Bâtonnage in Spring, 30% malolactic fermentation.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMATURATION\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMatured for 10 months in new and used French oak â€?20% new, 80% older.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVINTAGE NOTES\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e2021 was a terrific vintage for both vineyard quality and quantity. We had a wet spring followed by a healthy amount of sunshine and some well-timed rain in January, leading to large green healthy canopies. The overall temperature during the growing season was cooler than average which led to a long slow ripening period and great concentration of flavours and natural acidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"JC FINE WINES","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45372294725847,"sku":null,"price":74.99,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0706\/8637\/6151\/files\/2021GiantSteps_TarrafordVineyard_Chardonnay750mL.png?v=1719807284"},{"product_id":"2022-giant-steps-sexton-vineyard-chardonnay-750ml","title":"2022 Giant Steps Sexton Vineyard Chardonnay 750ml","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"tasting-notes\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"tasting-notes__items__2 noBorder\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"grid-setting context-area\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eRegion: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYarra Valley, Victoria\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"subdetails\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"subdetail autocol\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eVintage Notes\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2021 was a terrific vintage for both vineyard quality and quantity. We had a wet spring followed by a healthy amount of sunshine and some well-timed rain in January, leading to large green healthy canopies. The overall temperature during the growing season was cooler than average which led to a long slow ripening period and great concentration of flavours and natural acidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"subdetail autocol\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eVineyard Notes\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLocation: Gruyere Planted: 1997 Elevation: 130 - 210 metres Soil Type: Grey clay loam over granite \/ ironstone Aspect: North facing slopes Size: 30 Hectares Located on the steep north facing slopes of the Warramate Ranges, the Sexton Vineyard is exposed and demanding. Being on the higher slopes, topsoil is thin and root systems have established themselves in shallow gravelly loams above a tough rocky clay base. Bunch yields set naturally low in this environment, resulting in intensely flavoured fruit with high skin to juice ratio.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"subdetail autocol\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eWinemaking\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e100% hand picked â€?a spectacular year with every block and clone contributing to the final blend. Whole bunch pressed, juice transferred to barrel by gravity with no settling. Fermented in 500L French puncheons. A small amount of bâtonnage and 20% malolactic fermentation. Maturation for 10 months in new and used French oak â€?20% new, 80% older, Taransaud, Mercurey and D\u0026amp;J.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"JC FINE WINES","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45372396306647,"sku":null,"price":73.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0706\/8637\/6151\/files\/2022GiantStepsSextonVineyardChardonnay750ml_2e37ae9d-bc83-484c-bb6f-c7da4ed296d1.png?v=1727494372"},{"product_id":"2022-giant-steps-sexton-vineyard-pinot-noir-750ml","title":"2022 Giant Steps Sexton Vineyard Pinot Noir 750ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eRegion: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYarra Valley, Victoria\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"subdetails\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"subdetail autocol\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eVintage Notes\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2022 was a high quality but low yielding season in the Yarra Valley. A very cool, wet and stormy spring resulted in some challenging conditions around flowering and hence very poor fruit set. The season proceeded to dry out into December, with a dry and warm Christmas period. This exacerbated the already small bunch weights, leading to bunches that weighed up to 40% lower than average. The mild summer meant long, slow ripening and flavour concentration throughout summer, with some well-placed rain in January refreshing the vineyards at just the right time. The strong canopies and low fruit load meant we sailed neatly into picking with very little disease or weather pressure affecting our picking decisions. The grapes from 2022 came off the vine with lovely concentration and flavour with great natural acidity and tannin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"subdetail autocol\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eVineyard Notes\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLocation: Gruyere Planted: 1997 Elevation: 130 - 210 metres Soil Type: Grey clay loam over granite \/ ironstone. Aspect: North facing slopes Size: 30 Hectares Located on the steep slopes of the Warramate Ranges, the Sexton Vineyard is in one of the most revered pockets of the Valley. Being well up the Range’s north-facing slopes, topsoil is thin and root systems have established themselves in shallow gravelly loams above a tough, rocky clay base. Bunch yields set naturally low in this environment, resulting in intensely flavoured fruit with high skin to juice ratio. The clonal selection of Pinot Noir off this site includes the G5V15 clone, which responds well to the warmer conditions and sunlight exposure to produce juicy and plush wines. The Pinot Noir produced from Sexton have a lovely texture, with dark cherries and plums, sweet spice notes and youthful tannins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"subdetail autocol\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eWinemaking\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHand-picked, all fruit is chilled overnight to 12 degrees Celsius. The grapes were 100% destemmed, soaked cold for five days, then allowed to warm gently into a wild ferment. All parcels were matured in French oak â€?25% new, 75% older â€?for 10 months in 225L barriques, Taranasaud, Vicard and Dargaud \u0026amp; Jaeglé. Racked to blend, no fining, no filtration. Bottled by gravity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"JC FINE WINES","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45372396667095,"sku":null,"price":84.9,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0706\/8637\/6151\/files\/2022GiantStepsSextonVineyardPinotNoir750ml.png?v=1719808911"},{"product_id":"2022-giant-steps-applejack-vineyard-pinot-noir-750ml","title":"2022 Giant Steps Applejack Vineyard Pinot Noir 750ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eRegion: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYarra Valley, Victoria\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"subdetails\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"subdetail autocol\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eVintage Notes\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2022 was a high quality but low yielding season in the Yarra Valley. A very cool, wet and stormy spring resulted in some challenging conditions around flowering and hence very poor fruit set. The season proceeded to dry out into December, with a dry and warm Christmas period. This exacerbated the already small bunch weights, leading to bunches that weighed up to 40% lower than average. The mild summer meant long, slow ripening and flavour concentration throughout summer, with some well-placed rain in January refreshing the vineyards at just the right time. The strong canopies and low fruit load meant we sailed neatly into picking with very little disease or weather pressure affecting our picking decisions. The grapes from 2022 came off the vine with lovely concentration and flavour with great natural acidity and tannin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"subdetail autocol\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eVineyard Notes\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLocation: Gladysdale Planted: 1997 Elevation: 300 metres Soil type: Grey clay loam over black (basalt) volcanic base Aspect: East facing slopes Size: 12.5 Hectares Applejack Vineyard is a special site, located on a dramatic slope in the upper Yarra Valley. It was planted by respected viticulturist Ray Guerin in 1997. The basalt based underlying volcanic soil and rock produce a characteristically fine yet extended, spicy and firm palate. The higher altitude results in a cooler and extended growing season, ideally suited to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay (3-4 weeks later than central Yarra Valley). This vineyard is a special location for Pinot Noir in the Yarra Valley â€?its eastern aspect means the sun rises to warm and dry out the vineyard in the morning, but the vines are sheltered from the afternoon heat from the temperate rainforest that surrounds it. The earthen flavours combined with fine tannins, intense flavour and texture on the palate shows us the quality of the site for world class Pinot Noir.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"subdetail autocol\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eWinemaking\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHand picked, all fruit is chilled overnight to 12 degrees Celsius. Fermented in small oak fermenters and stainless steel open vats. The Pommard parcels were fermented as whole bunches, while the remaining clones were destemmed to whole berries and cold soaked for five days. The resulting blend is almost 20% whole bunch. All parcels were matured in French oak 20% new, 80% older â€?for ten months in 225L barriques, Taransaud and Dargaud \u0026amp; Jaeglé. Racked to blend, no fining, no filtration. Bottled by gravity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"JC FINE WINES","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45372396732631,"sku":null,"price":81.99,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0706\/8637\/6151\/files\/2022GiantStepsApplejackVineyardPinotNoir750ml.png?v=1719808915"},{"product_id":"2022-giant-steps-yarra-valley-pinot-noir-750ml","title":"2022 Giant Steps Yarra Valley Pinot Noir 750ml","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"award-title\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSingle Price: $37.99\/bottle\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"award-title\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e6pk single price: $36.67\/bottle\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"award-title\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"award-title\"\u003e\"A 50\/50% mix of upper and lower Yarra fruit. Fermented with mainly whole berries and matured in French oak (10% new). A bright ruby crimson. Expressive with aromas of satsuma plums, strawberry coulis, fennel seeds and a hint of star anise. With its core of ripe yet well-delineated fruit and firm-ish, balanced tannins, this is more concentrated and muscular than the 2021. It will age well, too, for those that find themselves with a bottle seven to 10 years from now.\" - Philip Rich\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"award-date-description\"\u003e96 points, May 2023.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"award-date-description\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"award-date-description\"\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"subdetails\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"subdetail autocol\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eVintage Notes\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2022 was a high quality but low yielding season in the Yarra Valley. A very cool, wet and stormy spring resulted in some challenging conditions around flowering and hence very poor fruit set. The season proceeded to dry out into December, with a dry and warm Christmas period. This exacerbated the already small bunch weights, leading to bunches that weighed up to 40% lower than normal years. The mild summer meant long, slow ripening and flavour concentration throughout summer, with some well-placed rain in January refreshing the vineyards at just the right time. The strong canopies and low fruit load meant we sailed neatly into picking with very little disease or weather pressure affecting our picking decisions. The grapes from 2022 came off the vine with lovely concentration and flavour with great natural acidity and tannin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"subdetail autocol\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eVineyard Notes\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSourced from vineyards across the Yarra Valley. 50% sourced from the upper Yarra ranges.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"subdetail autocol\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eWinemaking\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll Giant Steps fruit is 100% hand-picked. Our grapes are then chilled overnight before processing. The Pinot is either fermented as 100% whole bunches or 100% destemmed with whole berries. The whole bunch treatments have a warm start to fermentation, with minimal mixing throughout the start of fermentation to promote carbonic maceration. These ferments are then left for up to 21 days on skins before pressing. The destemmed and whole berry batches are held cold at 4â„?for four days before the ferment is allowed to heat up and start fermentation naturally with indigenous yeasts. Cold soaked for 3 days, then allowed to warm in small open fermenters in order to kick start wild fermentation. Parcels are matured in French oak (10% new, 90% older) for eight months. Blended in October and then bottled by gravity without fining or filtration in November.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"subdetail autocol\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eFood Matches\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTurmeric and garlic roasted chicken with couscous. Mushroom Risotto with roasted enoki. BBQ Quail with five spice, fried spring onion and garlic flakes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"JC FINE WINES","offers":[{"title":"1 bottle","offer_id":45542607585495,"sku":null,"price":37.99,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0706\/8637\/6151\/files\/2022GiantStepsYarraValleyPinotNoir750ml.png?v=1727752817"},{"product_id":"2023-giant-steps-applejack-vineyard-pinot-noir-750ml","title":"2023 Giant Steps Applejack Vineyard Pinot Noir 750ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eRegion: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYarra Valley, Victoria\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"subdetails\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"subdetail autocol\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eVintage Notes\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2022 was a high quality but low yielding season in the Yarra Valley. A very cool, wet and stormy spring resulted in some challenging conditions around flowering and hence very poor fruit set. The season proceeded to dry out into December, with a dry and warm Christmas period. This exacerbated the already small bunch weights, leading to bunches that weighed up to 40% lower than average. The mild summer meant long, slow ripening and flavour concentration throughout summer, with some well-placed rain in January refreshing the vineyards at just the right time. The strong canopies and low fruit load meant we sailed neatly into picking with very little disease or weather pressure affecting our picking decisions. The grapes from 2022 came off the vine with lovely concentration and flavour with great natural acidity and tannin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"subdetail autocol\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eVineyard Notes\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLocation: Gladysdale Planted: 1997 Elevation: 300 metres Soil type: Grey clay loam over black (basalt) volcanic base Aspect: East facing slopes Size: 12.5 Hectares Applejack Vineyard is a special site, located on a dramatic slope in the upper Yarra Valley. It was planted by respected viticulturist Ray Guerin in 1997. The basalt based underlying volcanic soil and rock produce a characteristically fine yet extended, spicy and firm palate. The higher altitude results in a cooler and extended growing season, ideally suited to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay (3-4 weeks later than central Yarra Valley). This vineyard is a special location for Pinot Noir in the Yarra Valley its eastern aspect means the sun rises to warm and dry out the vineyard in the morning, but the vines are sheltered from the afternoon heat from the temperate rainforest that surrounds it. The earthen flavours combined with fine tannins, intense flavour and texture on the palate shows us the quality of the site for world class Pinot Noir.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"subdetail autocol\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eWinemaking\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHand picked, all fruit is chilled overnight to 12 degrees Celsius. Fermented in small oak fermenters and stainless steel open vats. The Pommard parcels were fermented as whole bunches, while the remaining clones were destemmed to whole berries and cold soaked for five days. The resulting blend is almost 20% whole bunch. All parcels were matured in French oak 20% new, 80% older for ten months in 225L barriques, Taransaud and Dargaud \u0026amp; Jaeglé. Racked to blend, no fining, no filtration. Bottled by gravity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Sip \u0026 Cellars","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45610864607447,"sku":null,"price":99.99,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0706\/8637\/6151\/files\/2024090604.png?v=1730553610"},{"product_id":"2023-giant-steps-applejack-vineyard-chardonnay-750ml","title":"2023 Giant Steps Applejack Vineyard Chardonnay 750ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVintage Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e  \u003cbr\u003eThe 2023 vintage in the Yarra Valley was small but of exceptional quality, marked by a cool spring, mild growing conditions, and moderate to high rainfall. It was one of the coolest and latest harvests on record, with picking starting two and a half weeks later than usual. The grapes developed excellent fruit concentration and vibrant natural acidity. The mild summer allowed for slow ripening, leading to deep flavors, while timely January rain refreshed the vines. Strong canopies and low fruit yields led to a healthy harvest with minimal disease or weather challenges.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVineyard Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e    \u003cbr\u003eLocation: Gladysdale  \u003cbr\u003ePlanted: 1997  \u003cbr\u003eElevation: 220-320 meters  \u003cbr\u003eSoil: Grey clay loam over basalt volcanic base  \u003cbr\u003eAspect: East-facing slopes  \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApplejack Vineyard, located on steep slopes in the upper Yarra Valley, is meticulously managed and was established by Ray Guerin in 1997. The volcanic soil imparts a distinctive, spicy, and firm palate to the wine, while the elevated position results in a cooler, longer growing season, particularly suited to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Chardonnay from this site requires careful management to ensure even ripeness and balanced acidity, yielding a wine with savory notes of lemon rind and grilled nuts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaking:\u003c\/strong\u003e    \u003cbr\u003eThe grapes are 100% handpicked and whole bunch pressed, with the juice transferred directly to barrel by gravity, keeping the full lees. It undergoes wild fermentation in 500L French oak puncheons, without bâtonnage or malolactic fermentation. The wine is matured for 9 months in French oak, with 25% second-use barrels and 75% seasoned barrels from Mercurey, Taransaud, and Dargaud \u0026amp; Jaeglé.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sip \u0026 Cellars","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45610864640215,"sku":null,"price":88.99,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0706\/8637\/6151\/files\/2023_Giant_Steps_Applejack_Vineyard_Chardonnay_750ml_c437de6b-e1b3-490b-a3e4-6e9323dd188c.png?v=1727688131"},{"product_id":"2023-giant-steps-sexton-vineyard-pinot-noir-750ml","title":"2023 Giant Steps Sexton Vineyard Pinot Noir 750ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStored in warehouse cellar. Pickup at Sip \u0026amp; Cellars by appointment only. Please contact Jessica at 0481 986 158 at least one day in advance to arrange collection. Cheers!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eRegion: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYarra Valley, Victoria\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVintage Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe 2023 Yarra Valley vintage was small but of exceptional quality, marked by a cool spring, mild growing season, and cool nights with moderate to high rainfall. This resulted in one of the coolest and latest harvests on record, with picking starting two and a half weeks later than average. The grapes showed impressive fruit concentration and vibrant natural acidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVineyard Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLocation: Gruyere | Planted: 1997 | Elevation: 130 - 210 meters | Soil: Grey clay loam over granite\/ironstone | Aspect: North-facing slopes | Size: 30 hectares. \u003cbr\u003eSituated on the steep north-facing slopes of the Warramate Ranges, the Sexton Vineyard is renowned in the Yarra Valley. The thin topsoil forces roots into gravelly loam above rocky clay, creating low yields and intensely flavored fruit. Pinot Noir from this site, particularly the G5V15 clone, thrives in the warmer conditions, producing wines with rich texture, dark cherry, and plum notes, sweet spice, and youthful tannins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaking\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHandpicked grapes were fermented in small oak fermenters and stainless steel open vats. MV6 parcels underwent whole bunch fermentation, while other clones were destemmed to whole berries and cold-soaked for four days. The final blend contains 21% whole bunch fermented grapes, aged for 10 months in French oak (25% new). The wine remained on its lees without movement, and was bottled by gravity with no fining or filtration.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"JC FINE WINES","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45610864672983,"sku":null,"price":94.99,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0706\/8637\/6151\/files\/2023_Giant_Steps_Sexton_Vineyard_Pinot_Noir_750ml_d149372e-725d-4771-a19f-8c1cca7ac70c.png?v=1747812931"},{"product_id":"2023-giant-steps-primavera-vineyard-pinot-noir-750ml","title":"2023 Giant Steps Primavera Vineyard Pinot Noir 750ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStored in warehouse cellar. Pickup at Sip \u0026amp; Cellars by appointment only. Please contact Jessica at 0481 986 158 at least one day in advance to arrange collection. Cheers!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVintage Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe 2023 vintage in the Yarra Valley was notable for its small yet exceptional harvest. A cool spring, mild growing conditions, cool nights, and moderate to high rainfall defined the season. This was one of the regions coolest and latest harvests on record, with picking beginning over two weeks later than usual. The grapes from 2023 exhibited excellent fruit concentration and naturally bright acidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVineyard Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLocation: Woori Yallock \u003cbr\u003ePlanted: 2001 \u003cbr\u003eElevation: 240 meters \u003cbr\u003eSoil Type: Red clay loam \u003cbr\u003eAspect: North and northeast-facing slopes \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLou Primavera established the vineyard in Hoddles Creek in 2001 after discovering Yarra Valley wines 25 years prior. Giant Steps has sourced fruit from this site since 2006. The vineyard, known for producing fragrant, floral Pinot Noir with red fruit characteristics and a soft, sweet profile, has two slopes with different clones¡ªMV6 on the northern slope and 115 and G-clone on the southern slope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaking:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe grapes were handpicked and fermented in a mix of small oak fermenters and stainless steel open vats. Each clone was handled separately, with either 100% whole bunches or 100% destemmed fruit. The MV6 clone was fermented as whole bunches in seasoned oak, while the 115 and G-clone underwent a cold soak and were fermented as whole berries. Fermentation lasted 10-14 days, with gentle mixing, and 15% of the blend involved whole bunch fermentation. The wine then matured in French oak barriques (20% new) for nine months, remaining on its lees until blending, with no fining or filtration before bottling.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"JC FINE WINES","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45610864705751,"sku":null,"price":94.99,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0706\/8637\/6151\/files\/2023_Giant_Steps_Primavera_Vineyard_Pinot_Noir_750ml_21b258b7-a3b6-448c-b01b-f0e1a23a3e90.png?v=1747812934"},{"product_id":"2021-giant-steps-equate-chardonnay-750ml","title":"2021 Giant Steps Equate Chardonnay 750ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStored in warehouse cellar. Pickup at Sip \u0026amp; Cellars by appointment only. Please contact Jessica at 0481 986 158 at least one day in advance to arrange collection. Cheers!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVintage Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e   \u003cbr\u003eThe 2021 vintage proved exceptional for vineyard quality, prompting us to launch this new project. Following a wet spring and mild summer, timely January rains fostered robust canopies. The cooler-than-average growing season extended the ripening period, resulting in thick grape skins, enhanced tannin development, natural acidity, and concentrated flavors. These factors contribute to high antioxidant properties and greater aging potential.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVineyard Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e   \u003cbr\u003eLocation: Gruyere  \u003cbr\u003ePlanted: 1997  \u003cbr\u003eElevation: 130 - 210 meters  \u003cbr\u003eSoil Type: Grey clay loam over granite\/ironstone  \u003cbr\u003eAspect: North-facing slopes  \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter 20 years of farming Sexton Vineyard, we've identified two exceptional blocks for this wine. Situated on the steep, north-facing slopes of the Warramate Ranges, the vineyard benefits from thin topsoil and established root systems in gravelly loams over a rocky clay base. Naturally low yields lead to intensely flavored fruit with a high skin-to-juice ratio. The 96 clone offers intense fruit, while the Mendoza clone, with its millerandage effect, contributes to high tannin and phenolic content, balancing citrus flavors. We hope you enjoy this wine as much as we enjoyed crafting it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaking\u003c\/strong\u003e   \u003cbr\u003eHandpicked from two consistently strong blocks: Block 2 (96 clone) and Block 12 (Mendoza clone). Grapes are meticulously sorted, refrigerated overnight, and whole bunch pressed. The juice is transferred to barrel by gravity, retaining all solids for fermentation. We use one-year seasoned 500L French puncheons, all second-fill 2020 oak (Taransaud and Mercurey). The wine undergoes primary fermentation, monthly bâtonnage, and natural malolactic fermentation. It matures for 11 months in barrel, one month in tank on lees, and two years in bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"product-attribute__item-key\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinery\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003ePenfolds\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"product-attribute__item-key\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVarietal(s)\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"product-attribute__item-value\"\u003ePinot Gris\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"product-attribute__item-key\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"product-attribute__item-value\"\u003e750mL\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"product-attribute__item-key\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCountry\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"product-attribute__item-value\"\u003eAustralia\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"product-attribute__item-key\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eState\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"product-attribute__item-value\"\u003eVictoria\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"product-attribute__item-key\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRegion\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"product-attribute__item-value\"\u003eMornington Peninsula\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"product-attribute__item-key\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVintage\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"product-attribute__item-value\"\u003e2013\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"product-attribute__item-key\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAlc\/Vol\u003c\/strong\u003e: 13.5%\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"product-attribute__item-key\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"product-attribute__item-key\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClosure Type\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"product-attribute__item-value\"\u003eScrew Cap\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"product-attribute__item-value\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDrinking Window\u003c\/strong\u003e: 2000 - 2050\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"product-attribute__item-value\"\u003eWine Sweetness\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"product-attribute__item-value\"\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"product-attribute__item-value\"\u003eVegan Friendly\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"product-attribute__item-value\"\u003e:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"section-header\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"JC FINE WINES","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45610864738519,"sku":null,"price":119.99,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0706\/8637\/6151\/files\/2021_Giant_Steps_Equate_Chardonnay_750ml_164d8705-4f96-42be-8889-cc96fac79580.png?v=1732673603"},{"product_id":"2023-giant-steps-bastard-hill-vineyard-chardonnay-750ml","title":"2023 Giant Steps Bastard Hill Vineyard Chardonnay 750ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVintage Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e   \u003cbr\u003eThe 2023 season in the Yarra Valley produced a limited but exceptional vintage, marked by a cool spring, mild growing conditions, and high rainfall. This year’s harvest was one of the latest on record, starting two and a half weeks later than usual. The grapes from this vintage boast impressive fruit concentration and vibrant natural acidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVineyard Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e   \u003cbr\u003eLocation: Gladysdale  \u003cbr\u003ePlanted: 1986  \u003cbr\u003eElevation: 380 meters  \u003cbr\u003eSoil Type: Volcanic loam (red\/ferrous)  \u003cbr\u003eAspect: North and south-facing slopes  \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBastard Hill, a 31-hectare property in Upper Yarra Valley’s Gladysdale sub-region, features 13 hectares dedicated to Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Named for its steep slopes and high altitude (300-400 meters), the site was originally planted by Ray Guerin in the late 1980s for premium sparkling wines. Recognized for its potential for top-quality still wines, Bastard Hill has been producing notable Chardonnay and Pinot Noir since the 1990s. The 2023 vintage marks its debut in the Giant Steps portfolio, showcasing the vineyard’s ability to produce concentrated, pure, and focused wines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaking\u003c\/strong\u003e   \u003cbr\u003eHandpicked small bunches are whole-bunch pressed, with juice gravity-fed into barrels without settling. Fermentation occurs in 500L French puncheons, with 25% undergoing malolactic fermentation. The wine matures for 9 months in used French oakâ€?5% second-use and 75% seasoned from Mercurey, Taransaud, and Dargaud \u0026amp; Jaeglé.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"JC FINE WINES","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45610864771287,"sku":null,"price":89.99,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0706\/8637\/6151\/files\/2023_Giant_Steps_Bastard_Hill_Vineyard_Chardonnay_750ml.png?v=1730168548"},{"product_id":"2023-giant-steps-bastard-hill-vineyard-pinot-noir-750ml","title":"2023 Giant Steps Bastard Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir 750ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVintage Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e ??\u003cbr\u003eThe 2023 vintage in the Yarra Valley was small but of exceptional quality. Defined by a cool spring, mild conditions, cool nights, and moderate to high rainfall, it resulted in one of the region's coolest and latest harvests on record, with the first pick starting two and a half weeks later than usual. The grapes exhibited excellent fruit concentration with bright, natural acidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVineyard Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e? ?\u003cbr\u003eLocated in Gladysdale, Bastard Hill is a 31-hectare property with 13 hectares of vines planted in 1986. Situated at an elevation of 300-400 meters on north- and south-facing slopes, the vineyard's volcanic loam soils contribute to the unique character of the wines. Originally planted by renowned viticulturalist Ray Guerin for sparkling wine production, the site quickly proved ideal for still wines, producing premium Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. This 2023 vintage is the first release from the vineyard under the Giant Steps label, showcasing an elegant and perfumed Pinot Noir with exotic red fruit and bergamot aromas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaking\u003c\/strong\u003e? ?\u003cbr\u003eHandpicked in two parcels, the grapes were chilled overnight before being fully destemmed and fermented in small seasoned French oak vats. Each clone was vinified separately, with a cold soak for four days before fermentation. The wine spent 10-14 days on skins with gentle mixing by gravity, followed by malolactic fermentation and maturation in French oak barriques (20% new, 80% seasoned) for ten months. The wine remained on its lees until blending in December and was bottled without fining or filtration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"o-p c-tasting__description-main-blurb\" data-gtm-vis-recent-on-screen1282393_180=\"326\" data-gtm-vis-first-on-screen1282393_180=\"326\" data-gtm-vis-total-visible-time1282393_180=\"100\" data-gtm-vis-has-fired1282393_180=\"1\"\u003eMade with 20% whole bunches. All D clones. Matured in barriques (20% new). A light, very bright crimson. Smells like a rose garden with a little lavender thrown in! You'll also find aromas of sour cherries and blood oranges. Poised, elegant and persistent, this flows mellifluously across the palate. A classic Upper Yarra pinot, driven as much by its fine vein of acidity as its silken tannins. - \u003cstrong\u003e97 Points, Philip Rich, Halliday Wine Companion\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp id=\"tastingNote\" class=\"o-p c-tasting__description-main-blurb\" data-gtm-vis-recent-on-screen1282393_180=\"326\" data-gtm-vis-first-on-screen1282393_180=\"326\" data-gtm-vis-total-visible-time1282393_180=\"100\" data-gtm-vis-has-fired1282393_180=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"JC FINE WINES","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45610864804055,"sku":null,"price":99.9,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0706\/8637\/6151\/files\/2023_Giant_Steps_Bastard_Hill_Vineyard_Pinot_Noir_750ml_76f36fde-c12e-49d6-b05c-2dae68913862.png?v=1747812938"},{"product_id":"2024-giant-steps-yarra-valley-pinot-noir-750ml","title":"2024 Giant Steps Yarra Valley Pinot Noir 750ml","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"award-title\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePickup is available at \u003cspan class=\"color-foreground\"\u003eSip \u0026amp; Cellars. (Physical shop add:1123 Burke Road, Kew VIC 3101)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"award-title\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"award-title\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"award-title\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eA bright crimson red. After a few good few swirls, aromas of ripe raspberries, black cherries, wild herbs and some crushed violets soon emerge. The palate, though, doesn’t need much coaxing, and this silken, sappy wine has excellent depth and persistence. Will be even better six to 12 months from now.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e96 points – Philip Rich, Halliday Wine Companion\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"award-title\"\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"award-title\"\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"woocommerce-product-attributes shop_attributes\" aria-label=\"Product Details\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"woocommerce-product-attributes-item woocommerce-product-attributes-item--attribute_pa_producer\"\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"woocommerce-product-attributes-item__label\" scope=\"row\"\u003eProducer\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"woocommerce-product-attributes-item__value\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiant Steps\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"woocommerce-product-attributes-item woocommerce-product-attributes-item--attribute_pa_grape_variety\"\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"woocommerce-product-attributes-item__label\" scope=\"row\"\u003eGrape Variety\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"woocommerce-product-attributes-item__value\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePinot Noir\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"woocommerce-product-attributes-item woocommerce-product-attributes-item--attribute_pa_region\"\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"woocommerce-product-attributes-item__label\" scope=\"row\"\u003eRegion\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"woocommerce-product-attributes-item__value\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYarra Valley\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"woocommerce-product-attributes-item woocommerce-product-attributes-item--attribute_pa_country\"\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"woocommerce-product-attributes-item__label\" scope=\"row\"\u003eCountry\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"woocommerce-product-attributes-item__value\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAustralia\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"woocommerce-product-attributes-item woocommerce-product-attributes-item--attribute_pa_vintage\"\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"woocommerce-product-attributes-item__label\" scope=\"row\"\u003eVintage\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"woocommerce-product-attributes-item__value\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2024\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"woocommerce-product-attributes-item woocommerce-product-attributes-item--attribute_pa_size\"\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"woocommerce-product-attributes-item__label\" scope=\"row\"\u003eSize\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"woocommerce-product-attributes-item__value\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e750ml\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eAlc\/Vol\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e13.5%\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"row\"\u003eDrinking Window\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2026-2031\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"award-date-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"subdetails\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"subdetail autocol\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eVineyard Notes\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSourced from vineyards across the Yarra Valley. 50% sourced from the upper Yarra ranges.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"subdetail autocol\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eWinemaking\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll Giant Steps fruit is 100% hand-picked. Our grapes are then chilled overnight before processing. The Pinot is either fermented as 100% whole bunches or 100% destemmed with whole berries. The whole bunch treatments have a warm start to fermentation, with minimal mixing throughout the start of fermentation to promote carbonic maceration. These ferments are then left for up to 21 days on skins before pressing. The destemmed and whole berry batches are held cold at 4℃ for four days before the ferment is allowed to heat up and start fermentation naturally with indigenous yeasts. Cold soaked for 3 days, then allowed to warm in small open fermenters in order to kick start wild fermentation. Parcels are matured in French oak (10% new, 90% older) for eight months. Blended in October and then bottled by gravity without fining or filtration in November.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"subdetail autocol\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eFood Matches\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTurmeric and garlic roasted chicken with couscous. Mushroom Risotto with roasted enoki. BBQ Quail with five spice, fried spring onion and garlic flakes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Sip \u0026 Cellars","offers":[{"title":"1 bottle","offer_id":48270096924887,"sku":null,"price":34.99,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0706\/8637\/6151\/files\/2022GiantStepsYarraValleyPinotNoir750ml.png?v=1727752817"},{"product_id":"2024-giant-steps-yarra-valley-chardonnay-750ml","title":"2024 Giant Steps Yarra Valley Chardonnay 750ml","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"award-title\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePickup is available at \u003cspan class=\"color-foreground\"\u003eSip \u0026amp; Cellars. (Physical shop add:1123 Burke Road, Kew VIC 3101)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"award-title\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"award-title\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"award-title\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eChardonnay done the Giant Steps way—clean, coiled, and quietly powerful.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eThe 2024 Yarra Valley Chardonnay brings together fruit from both the upper and lower reaches of the valley, with a gentle hand in the winery that lets the site do the talking. Pressed as whole bunches, wild fermented in large format French oak (just 15% new), and matured on lees without interference, this wine is all about restraint and precision.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe cool 2024 vintage delivered small crops but big flavour. Concentration, acidity and structure are all in balance here—ripe orchard fruit, white stone fruit, citrus and blossom meet a touch of flinty reduction and warm spice from the oak. The kind of Chardonnay that’s built for the table, not the trophy cabinet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePair it with barbecued prawns, seared white fish or simply on its own—it more than holds its own.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Sip \u0026 Cellars","offers":[{"title":"1 bottle","offer_id":48270097744087,"sku":null,"price":34.99,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0706\/8637\/6151\/files\/giantsteps-yv-chard.jpg?v=1770339090"},{"product_id":"2021-giant-steps-applejack-vineyard-pinot-noir-750ml","title":"2021 Giant Steps Applejack Vineyard Pinot Noir 750ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003e     Keep in cellars. \u003c\/span\u003ePickup is available at \u003cspan class=\"color-foreground\"\u003eSip \u0026amp; Cellars. (Physical shop add:1123 Burke Road, Kew VIC 3101)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003e     Region: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYarra Valley, Victoria\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"subdetails\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"subdetail autocol\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eVintage Notes\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2021 was a high quality but low yielding season in the Yarra Valley. A very cool, wet and stormy spring resulted in some challenging conditions around flowering and hence very poor fruit set. The season proceeded to dry out into December, with a dry and warm Christmas period. This exacerbated the already small bunch weights, leading to bunches that weighed up to 40% lower than average. The mild summer meant long, slow ripening and flavour concentration throughout summer, with some well-placed rain in January refreshing the vineyards at just the right time. The strong canopies and low fruit load meant we sailed neatly into picking with very little disease or weather pressure affecting our picking decisions. The grapes from 2021 came off the vine with lovely concentration and flavour with great natural acidity and tannin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"subdetail autocol\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eVineyard Notes\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLocation: Gladysdale Planted: 1997 Elevation: 300 metres Soil type: Grey clay loam over black (basalt) volcanic base Aspect: East facing slopes Size: 12.5 Hectares Applejack Vineyard is a special site, located on a dramatic slope in the upper Yarra Valley. It was planted by respected viticulturist Ray Guerin in 1997. The basalt based underlying volcanic soil and rock produce a characteristically fine yet extended, spicy and firm palate. The higher altitude results in a cooler and extended growing season, ideally suited to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay (3-4 weeks later than central Yarra Valley). This vineyard is a special location for Pinot Noir in the Yarra Valley its eastern aspect means the sun rises to warm and dry out the vineyard in the morning, but the vines are sheltered from the afternoon heat from the temperate rainforest that surrounds it. The earthen flavours combined with fine tannins, intense flavour and texture on the palate shows us the quality of the site for world class Pinot Noir.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"subdetail autocol\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eWinemaking\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHand picked, all fruit is chilled overnight to 12 degrees Celsius. Fermented in small oak fermenters and stainless steel open vats. The Pommard parcels were fermented as whole bunches, while the remaining clones were destemmed to whole berries and cold soaked for five days. The resulting blend is almost 20% whole bunch. All parcels were matured in French oak 20% new, 80% older for ten months in 225L barriques, Taransaud and Dargaud \u0026amp; Jaeglé. Racked to blend, no fining, no filtration. Bottled by gravity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Sip \u0026 Cellars","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48317264036055,"sku":null,"price":99.99,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0706\/8637\/6151\/files\/2024090604.png?v=1730553610"},{"product_id":"2024-giant-steps-applejack-vineyard-pinot-noir-750ml","title":"2024 Giant Steps Applejack Vineyard Pinot Noir 750ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003e     Keep in cellars. \u003c\/span\u003ePickup is available at \u003cspan class=\"color-foreground\"\u003eSip \u0026amp; Cellars. (Physical shop add:1123 Burke Road, Kew VIC 3101)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003e     \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e98\/100\u003c\/strong\u003e | Special Value | James Halliday Wine Companion\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"product__description rte quick-add-hidden\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Darkly fruited and more intense than the '23... culminating with succulent, grippy tannins on the long, tapering finish... one of Australia's most celebrated pinot noirs is in impressive form.\" Drinking window: 2025-2032.\u003cbr\u003e— Philip Rich, Published 31 July 2025\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVintage\u003c\/strong\u003e: 2024\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eR\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eegion\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYarra Valley, Victoria\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eVintage Notes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 2024 vintage was a more classic Yarra season. A cool start to Spring and ideal flowering conditions led to good fruit set and moderate yields. December was cool and mild, with significant rainfall at New Years and during the first week of January, giving the vines a good drink leading into the heat of February. Mid to late February was drier and warmer than is common in the Yarra, leading to great ripening conditions with no disease pressure and quite a fast vintage. In 2024, all of our Pinot and Chardonnay was ready in quick succession, leading to a compressed harvest - with the whole valley picked in the space of 3 weeks (where it normally spreads across 6 weeks). An exciting ride for our team, but ultimately giving us wines with great flavour, bright acidity and balance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eVineyard Notes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLocation: Gladysdale Planted: 1997 Elevation: 300 metres Soil type: Grey clay loam over black (basalt) volcanic base Aspect: East facing slopes Size: 12.5 Hectares Applejack Vineyard is a special site, located on a dramatic slope in the upper Yarra Valley. It was planted by respected viticulturist Ray Guerin in 1997. The basalt based underlying volcanic soil and rock produce a characteristically fine yet extended, spicy and firm palate. The higher altitude results in a cooler and extended growing season, ideally suited to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay (3-4 weeks later than central Yarra Valley). This vineyard is a special location for Pinot Noir in the Yarra Valley – its eastern aspect means the sun rises to gently warm and dry out the vineyard in the morning, but the vines are sheltered from the afternoon heat by the temperate rainforest that surrounds it. We notice it produces the most earthen pinot noirs, that have the beautiful perfume and exotic red fruits that we love about Pinot, with complex notes of fresh turned earth, miso and mushroom. The flavours combined with wound tannins, intense flavour and texture on the palate shows us the quality of the site for world class Pinot Noir.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"spec\"\u003eWinemaking\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHand-picked, Fermented in a combination of small oak fermenters and stainless-steel open vats. The Pommard clone parcels were fermented as whole bunches, while the remaining clones were destemmed to whole berries and cold soaked for four days before fermentation started naturally. The final blend is 30% whole bunch fermented. All parcels were matured in French oak 20% new, 80% seasoned – for ten months in 225L barriques, predominately Taransaud and Dargaud \u0026amp; Jaeglé. The wine was not moved and kept in contact with its lees before blending in January. Bottled by gravity. No fining. No filtration.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Sip \u0026 Cellars","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48317296017623,"sku":null,"price":94.99,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0706\/8637\/6151\/files\/2024090604.png?v=1730553610"},{"product_id":"2021-giant-steps-primavera-vineyard-pinot-noir-750ml","title":"2021 Giant Steps Primavera Vineyard Pinot Noir 750ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePickup is available at \u003cspan class=\"color-foreground\"\u003eSip \u0026amp; Cellars. (Physical shop add:1123 Burke Road, Kew VIC 3101)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCritic tasting note: \"This vintage of single-vineyard “Primavera\" Pinot is as vibrant as the vivid cherry hue suggests. It's a more delicate, drink-now drop than this producer's other single-vineyard Pinots. The wine explodes from the glass with red-berry and stalky cinnamon-bark aromas, followed by gentler dried herb, floral and warm stone notes. The palate is fresh and bright, with a well-threaded tug of textural tannins. Christina Pickard\" - 93\/100, Wine Enthusiast\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAbout The Wine\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePrimavera is an outlier in the Giant Steps Single Vineyard series.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis vineyard sits on red clay in the Upper Yarra, oddly a site that excels in warmer vintages. Red soils, undulating hills, the dedicated Lou Primavera tending it daily.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe wine released from Flamsteed in 2019 is incredibly floral and seductive - perhaps the softest and most sensual of the Pinot Noirs this year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStunning drinking now or for the cellar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout Giant Steps\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiant Steps is a premium Yarra Valley outfit founded by Phil Sexton located in the in the township of Healesville. Since appointing Steve Flamsteed as his head winemaker and eventual business partner, Sexton and Flamsteed have developed a reputation for producing some of the region's finest examples of single vineyard wines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the vineyard to the final bottled wine, every aspect of the Giant Steps process is geared towards making truly world-class wines. The focus is on what the Yarra does best - Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Shiraz\/Syrah and Bordeaux-variety blends - and showcasing the unique terroirs of some of the region's finest vineyards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor three years running and Spirit Magazine have named them as one of the Top 100 wineries in the world, and Flamsteed capped off an amazing run by being named Gourmet Traveller Wine's 2016 Winemaker of the Year, another jewel in the Giant Steps crown. Their ultra modern cellar door is one of the must-visit experiences for any wine tourist stopping through the Yarra Valley.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sip \u0026 Cellars","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48395623891159,"sku":null,"price":99.99,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0706\/8637\/6151\/files\/2019GiantStepsPrimaveraVineyarddPinotNoir.png?v=1719806364"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0706\/8637\/6151\/collections\/Giant_Steps.webp?v=1720484589","url":"https:\/\/santocellars.com\/collections\/giant-steps.oembed?page=2","provider":"Sip \u0026 Cellars","version":"1.0","type":"link"}