Giant Steps Sexton Vineyard Pinot Noir 2010 Yarra Valley, Victoria

Giant Steps Sexton Vineyard Pinot Noir 2010 Yarra Valley, Victoria made by Phil Sexton established Giant Steps in 2001 from the 30 ha north facing Warramate ranges vineyard planted in 1997 next door to the Yarra Yering site.
The Yarra Valley was Victoria's first wine growing district with a history stretching back 170 years. It is known as the birthplace of Victoria's wine industry. Vines were first planted in 1838 and viticulture spread rapidly through the 1860s and 1870s And is now recognised as one of Australia's foremost cool climate regions, capable of making classic styles from a wide range of varieties. It is located less than one hour's drive east of Melbourne and is currently home to more than 80 wineries and although grows many grapes successfully it is well known for its high quality for production of premium Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
The Yarra Valley is one of Australia's coolest regions, with elevation varying from 50 metres to 400 metres. Rainfall is winter/spring dominant, with the summer relatively cool, dry and humid and there is limited maritime influence a small diurnal temperature range reflects the proximity of the sea. Frost is rarely a problem, but can affect the lower vineyards on the valley floor from time to time. A rainfall of 750-950 millimetres and restricted water holding capacity in some soils, irrigation is considered essential − although the extent of its use does vary significantly between producers.

This wines grapes are hand-harvested, hand sorted and small-batch fermented in open top stainless fermenters with a whole bunch component included for complexity and spice. 12 months maturation in 25% new fine grained French oak. The resultant wine is silky in texture with sweet dark red fruits and spice intermingling on the palate, the dry wine great acidity freshening the fruits and the tannins are gum coating but fully ripe and tasty, the alcohol adds a third dimension but is well integrated and at 13% not noticeable ( and lower than many I have tasted), all of this ontop of the smokey tobacco aromas, sweet spice and red dark cherry nose, with reductive notes on both nose and palate ( which feel in line with the wine itself surprisingly!) - a delight! 

It is available from the Humble Grape at a cost of £17.50 - a steal.

Score : 89