Introduction: Taking the First Step into the World of Giant Steps
Giant Steps. The name itself evokes a sense of ambition, progress, and maybe just a hint of the monumental. In the realm of Australian wine, Giant Steps is synonymous with elegance, terroir-driven expression, and a relentless pursuit of quality. Founded by Phil Sexton, this Yarra Valley winery has consistently captivated critics and consumers alike with its single-vineyard Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. But where does one begin when exploring the impressive portfolio of Giant Steps? This guide provides a step-by-step approach, ensuring that every wine enthusiast, from novice to seasoned collector, can fully appreciate the Giant Steps experience.
Step 1: Understanding the Philosophy Behind Giant Steps
Before diving into specific wines, it’s crucial to grasp the core philosophy that drives Giant Steps. Phil Sexton’s vision centers on minimal intervention winemaking, allowing the unique characteristics of each vineyard site to shine through. This means:
- Single-Vineyard Focus: Each wine is sourced from a specific vineyard, highlighting its unique terroir.
- Wild Fermentation: Utilizing native yeasts present in the vineyard and winery to initiate fermentation, adding complexity and depth.
- Whole Bunch Fermentation: Incorporating a percentage of whole bunches (stems included) during fermentation, contributing tannins, structure, and aromatic lift.
- Minimal Oak Influence: Using oak judiciously to complement rather than mask the fruit, often favoring larger format barrels and a percentage of new oak.
Understanding these principles will provide context and enhance your appreciation of the wines.
Step 2: Exploring the Key Vineyard Sites
Giant Steps’ single-vineyard wines are the truest expression of their terroir. Familiarizing yourself with the key vineyard sites is essential:
- Sexton Vineyard: Located in Gruyere, this is one of the original vineyards and is known for producing elegant and structured Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays with fine tannins and bright acidity.
- Applejack Vineyard: Situated in the Upper Yarra Valley, Applejack yields wines with power and intensity, showcasing ripe fruit flavors and a plush texture.
- Tarraford Vineyard: Located in Yarra Glen, Tarraford produces wines with a distinct mineral character, vibrant acidity, and a long, lingering finish.
- Wombat Creek Vineyard: Sourced from the Gladysdale region, this site results in more savory and earthy Pinot Noirs, with complex spice notes.
Each vineyard imparts unique characteristics to the wines, making it worthwhile to explore the differences between them. You can discover a wide array of Australian wines at The Australian Store.
Step 3: Tasting and Evaluating Giant Steps Wines
Now comes the most enjoyable part: tasting the wines! Here’s a structured approach to help you evaluate them:
- Appearance: Observe the color and clarity of the wine. Pinot Noir typically ranges from light ruby to garnet, while Chardonnay can vary from pale straw to golden.
- Aroma: Swirl the wine in your glass to release its aromas. Identify the primary fruit notes (e.g., cherry, raspberry, citrus, stone fruit), as well as secondary aromas from oak aging (e.g., vanilla, spice, toast) and tertiary aromas that develop with age (e.g., earth, mushroom, leather).
- Palate: Take a sip and pay attention to the wine’s structure. Consider the acidity, tannins (in Pinot Noir), alcohol, and body (light, medium, or full). Note the flavors that mirror the aromas, as well as any new flavors that emerge.
- Finish: Evaluate the length of the finish – how long the flavors linger on your palate after you swallow. A long, complex finish is a hallmark of a high-quality wine.
When tasting multiple Giant Steps wines, try them side-by-side to better appreciate the nuances of each vineyard site. Consider focusing on a single varietal (e.g., Pinot Noir) and comparing different vineyard expressions.
Step 4: Understanding Vintage Variation
Vintage variation plays a significant role in the character of Giant Steps wines. The Yarra Valley’s cool climate makes it particularly susceptible to vintage-related differences. A warm, dry vintage will generally produce riper, more concentrated wines, while a cooler, wetter vintage may result in wines with higher acidity and more savory flavors. Researching the vintage conditions for each wine you taste will provide valuable context and help you understand the wine’s style.
Step 5: Food Pairing Suggestions
Giant Steps wines are incredibly food-friendly. Here are some general pairing suggestions:
- Pinot Noir: Earthy dishes like mushroom risotto, roasted beets, or game birds. Lighter-bodied Pinot Noirs pair well with salmon or tuna, while more structured examples can handle duck or lamb.
- Chardonnay: Rich seafood dishes like lobster or crab, creamy pasta sauces, or roasted chicken. The acidity of Chardonnay cuts through the richness of the food, while the wine’s flavors complement the dish.
Experimenting with different pairings is part of the fun. Don’t be afraid to try unconventional combinations – you might be surprised at what you discover. You can also pair your wine with craft beer from DROPT for a unique tasting experience.
Step 6: Cellaring Potential and Aging
Many Giant Steps wines have excellent cellaring potential. While they are enjoyable in their youth, they can evolve and develop greater complexity with age. Pinot Noir, in particular, can benefit from several years of bottle age, as the tannins soften and the fruit becomes more integrated. Chardonnay can also develop interesting nutty and savory notes over time.
If you plan to cellar Giant Steps wines, ensure that you have proper storage conditions: a cool, dark place with consistent temperature and humidity.
Step 7: Expanding Your Knowledge
The world of wine is vast and ever-evolving. To deepen your understanding of Giant Steps and the Yarra Valley, consider the following:
- Visit the Winery: If possible, visit the Giant Steps cellar door in Healesville. This is an excellent opportunity to taste a wide range of wines, learn about the winemaking process, and experience the beauty of the Yarra Valley firsthand.
- Read Wine Reviews: Consult reputable wine publications and websites for reviews and ratings of Giant Steps wines. This can provide valuable insights into the wine’s quality and style.
- Attend Wine Tastings: Participate in wine tastings and seminars to learn from experts and discover new wines.
- Join a Wine Club: Joining a wine club can provide access to exclusive wines and events, as well as educational resources.
Step 8: Exploring the Broader Yarra Valley
Giant Steps is just one of many exceptional wineries in the Yarra Valley. Take the time to explore other producers in the region, each with its own unique style and approach. This will give you a broader perspective on the Yarra Valley’s terroir and winemaking capabilities.
Step 9: Staying Updated
The wine industry is constantly changing, with new vintages, vineyard developments, and winemaking techniques emerging all the time. Stay updated on the latest news and developments by following Giant Steps on social media, subscribing to their newsletter, and reading industry publications.
Step 10: Sharing Your Experience
Finally, share your Giant Steps wine experiences with others. Talk to your friends, family, and fellow wine enthusiasts about what you’ve learned and discovered. Sharing your passion for wine can enrich your own enjoyment and inspire others to explore the world of wine.
Key Differences Between Vineyard Sites
Here’s a quick comparison table to highlight the key differences between some of the main Giant Steps vineyard sites:
| Vineyard Site | Location | Typical Wine Style | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sexton Vineyard | Gruyere | Elegant and Structured | Fine tannins, bright acidity, red fruit |
| Applejack Vineyard | Upper Yarra Valley | Powerful and Intense | Ripe fruit flavors, plush texture |
| Tarraford Vineyard | Yarra Glen | Mineral and Vibrant | Distinct mineral character, vibrant acidity, long finish |
| Wombat Creek Vineyard | Gladysdale | Savory and Earthy | Earthy notes, complex spice notes |
Conclusion: A Journey of Discovery
Exploring Giant Steps wine is a journey of discovery, one that rewards curiosity, attention to detail, and a willingness to experiment. By following these steps, you can unlock the legacy of Giant Steps and gain a deeper appreciation for the art of winemaking. So, raise a glass and embark on your own Giant Steps adventure!
FAQ Section
Q1: What makes Giant Steps wines so special?
Giant Steps wines are celebrated for their single-vineyard focus, minimal intervention winemaking, and expression of terroir. The unique characteristics of each vineyard site shine through in the wines, resulting in diverse and complex flavors.
Q2: How should I store Giant Steps wines for aging?
Store Giant Steps wines in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature and humidity. A wine cellar is ideal, but a cool closet or basement can also work. Avoid storing wines in areas with significant temperature fluctuations.
Q3: What are some good food pairings for Giant Steps Pinot Noir?
Giant Steps Pinot Noir pairs well with earthy dishes like mushroom risotto, roasted beets, or game birds. Lighter-bodied Pinot Noirs can be enjoyed with salmon or tuna, while more structured examples complement duck or lamb.
