Giant Steps Primavera Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021

Winemaking and Drinking

The Giant Steps Primavera Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021 is a testament to the finesse and diversity of the Yarra Valley, a region celebrated for its exceptional cool-climate wines. This single-vineyard Pinot Noir, crafted by the renowned Giant Steps winery, encapsulates the unique terroir of the Primavera Vineyard, located in the heart of the Upper Yarra.

Origins and Vineyard

The Primavera Vineyard sits at an elevation of approximately 300 meters, where cooler temperatures and rich volcanic soils provide ideal growing conditions for Pinot Noir. This vineyard benefits from meticulous viticultural practices, including hand-tending and sustainable methods, ensuring optimal vine health and fruit quality. The 2021 vintage was characterized by near-perfect weather conditions, delivering fruit with exceptional purity and balance.

Winemaking Process

Giant Steps is known for its minimalist winemaking philosophy, allowing the vineyard to take center stage. For the Primavera Pinot Noir 2021, the fruit was hand-harvested and partially whole-bunch fermented (around 40%), enhancing aromatics and adding complexity. Fermentation was completed with indigenous yeasts, and the wine was aged in French oak (20% new) for ten months, ensuring a harmonious integration of oak and fruit.

Tasting Notes

This Pinot Noir exudes elegance and precision. The nose reveals a bouquet of red cherries, wild strawberries, and cranberry, layered with hints of rose petals, earth, and subtle spices. On the palate, it is vibrant and silky, with fine tannins and a refreshing acidity that frames flavors of red fruit, forest floor, and a whisper of clove. The finish is long, with a savory undertone that speaks to its cool-climate origins.

Awards and Accolades

The 2021 Giant Steps Primavera Vineyard Pinot Noir has garnered widespread acclaim, earning 95 points from James Halliday and high praise from international critics. It reflects Giant Steps' commitment to producing world-class Pinot Noir and showcases the Yarra Valley as a leading Pinot Noir region on the global stage.