Giant Steps Single Vineyard Sexton Vineyard Yarra Valley Chardonnay
£50.89
Sale price
£50.89
Regular price
£62.18
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Giant Steps Single Vineyard Sexton Vineyard Yarra Valley Chardonnay
Bone Dry | White Wine | 2023 | 13.50% | 75 cl | Australia
£50.89
Sale price
£50.89
Regular price
£62.18
Taxes included.
Shipping calculated at checkout.
Description
Located on the steep north-facing slopes of the Warramate Ranges at an elevation of 130 to 210 metres, the 30 hectare Sexton vineyard, which was planted in 1997, is exposed and demanding. Being on the higher slopes, the topsoil is thin and root systems have established themselves in shallow, gravelly loams above a tough, rocky, clay base. Vigour and bunch yields are naturally low in this environment resulting in intensely flavoured fruit with a high skin to juice ratio. The predominant clones are Gingin and Mendoza with clones 277, 96, 76 and 78 planted as well.
The 2023 vintage saw cool and wet conditions throughout the entire growing season, delaying the commencement of this tough vintage. Spring was often wet in the Yarra Valley, with record volumes of rain from September until December. The frequent downpours elevated disease pressure but also made access to the vineyard an arduous task from waterlogged earth. Fortunately sun appeared in the critical weeks of flowering, allowing a healthy berry set and abundant pristine fruit. 2023 was one of the coolest and latest harvests on record, with the first
pick starting two and a half weeks later than the previous average, but fortunately the grapes in 2023 had lovely fruit concentration with bright natural acidities.
The grapes were 100% hand harvested before undergoing a whole bunch press. The juice was transferred to barrel by gravity with no settling, taking on full gross lees. Wild fermentation took place in 500 litre French puncheons with a small amount of bâtonnage and 20% malolactic fermentation. Maturation lasted for 9 months in new (15%) and used French oak.
This vineyard produces our most confident and open chardonnays due to its northern aspect and exposure coimbined with the clonal selection. This full-bodied Chardonnay opens with aromas of green apple, nectarine and almonds, with exotic yuzu fruit, ginger biscuit and preserved lemon. On the palate, it is precise and balanced, with an elevated savoury character. It is a wine of energy and drive, and finishes with lovely texture from the characteristic Gingin tannins and acidity.
Tasting notes
Nose
Palate
Finish
Key features
| Grape Variety Proportions | 100% Chardonnay |
|---|---|
| Producer | Giant Steps Single Vineyard |
| ABV | 13.50% |
| Bottle Size | 75 cl |
| Country | Australia |
| Region | Victoria |
| Vintage | 2023 |
| Closure | Screwcap |
Dietary Notes
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Serving suggestions
- Serve chilled at 10-12°C in large balloon glasses to enhance the wine’s texture and aroma while allowing room for subtle air exchange.
- Pair with a charcuterie board featuring creamy triple-cream cheese spiced pecans fresh figs and prosciutto for a refined flavor contrast.
- Create a white wine spritz by mixing with sparkling water a splash of elderflower cordial and garnishing with a thin apple slice and a fresh thyme sprig.
- Pair during a brunch occasion with crab and avocado on sourdough toast or a warm goat cheese and herb frittata with a light drizzle of truffle oil.
- For a unique seafood pairing enjoy alongside seared scallops with a beurre blanc sauce infused with lemon zest and dill.
- Use as a base for a chilled white wine and cucumber cocktail: muddle cucumber with mint add white wine and a hint of lime juice garnish with a cucumber ribbon.
- Serve at an outdoor garden party with lemon thyme roasted chicken and grilled peaches brushed with honey for a fresh summery vibe.
- As an alternate twist gently poach pear halves in this white wine with star anise and vanilla for an elegant dessert.
Storage advice
For optimal storage of white wine particularly a Chardonnay such as this one adhere to the following practical guidelines:
- Temperature: Store unopened bottles at a consistent cool temperature between 45°F and 55°F (7–13°C) with a target around 53°F (12°C) ideal for Chardonnay to preserve its delicate aromas and flavors without accelerating aging.
- Light exposure: Keep bottles in a dark environment away from direct sunlight and artificial light to prevent UV damage which can degrade both flavor and color.
- Sealing: Ensure the bottle has a properly fitted cork or sealing to minimize oxidation. For long-term storage check cork integrity occasionally to avoid deterioration.
- Bottle position: Store bottles on their side so the wine remains in contact with the cork keeping it moist and preventing it from drying out and shrinking which would allow air in and cause spoilage.
- Humidity: Maintain a moderate humidity level around 60–70% which helps preserve cork elasticity and prevents it from drying out or molding.
- Special storage tips: Avoid temperature fluctuations as they can cause the wine to expand and contract inside the bottle risking cork failure and oxidation. Do not store white wine long-term in a regular refrigerator as it can dry out the cork and accelerate aging; instead use a wine fridge or a dedicated cool dark space with steady temperature control.
- For opened bottles: After opening reseal tightly (using the original cork a wine stopper or a vacuum sealer) and keep refrigerated at about 42–50°F (5–10°C). Consume within 2–3 days for best quality as white wine oxidizes faster once opened.
This approach will preserve the wine’s quality aroma and flavor throughout storage and after opening.
Disclaimer
Please be aware that the vintage and other product information provided on our website or in our materials for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages is based on data supplied by the manufacturers and distributors. While we strive for accuracy, this information may occasionally be outdated or incorrect due to updates or changes made by the suppliers that have not yet been communicated to us.
Therefore, we cannot guarantee the absolute accuracy of the vintage, product descriptions, or other details provided.
Crucially, for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding allergens, ingredients, nutritional content, and specific product details, we strongly advise you to ALWAYS carefully check the product labels on the physical bottle or packaging you receive.
Supplier information is subject to change without our direct knowledge, and discrepancies may occur. We are committed to providing the best possible service and information, but the responsibility for verifying critical details, especially those related to health, allergies, and dietary requirements, rests with the consumer upon receipt of the product.
By proceeding with your purchase, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this disclaimer and agree that we shall not be held liable for any inaccuracies in the vintage or other product information provided that originated from our suppliers.
Thank you for your understanding.
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