Giant Steps Sexton Vineyard Chardonnay

Giant Steps – Sexton Vineyard Chardonnay 2023
Gruyere, Yarra Valley, Victoria – Australia

The Sexton Vineyard Chardonnay 2023 from Giant Steps is a refined, single-vineyard expression of cool-climate Australian Chardonnay. Sourced exclusively from the Sexton vineyard in Gruyere, on the lower Yarra Valley slopes, the 2023 vintage reflects a precise and terroir-driven style, shaped by the elevated site, lean volcanic soils, and meticulous winemaking.

This vineyard, planted in 1997, features a combination of Gingin and Bernard clones, both known for producing small berries and low yields, which enhance concentration and structure. Sitting at 100–210 metres above sea level on a north-facing slope, the vines benefit from excellent exposure and a long, even ripening period. The 2023 vintage followed a cool, wet spring and a mild summer—ideal for slow development of complex aromas and natural acidity.

On the nose, the wine opens with aromas of white peach, grapefruit pith, preserved lemon, grilled cashew and struck flint, showing lifted citrus and subtle reduction. The palate is taut and saline, with tension and linear drive. A creamy mid-palate develops through gentle lees work, finishing with pristine acidity, a hint of oyster shell minerality, and restrained oak influence. The overall impression is elegant, textural and highly age-worthy.

Winemaking highlights:

• 100% hand-picked Chardonnay

• Clones: Gingin and Bernard

• Whole-bunch pressed directly to French oak puncheons (25% new)

• Wild yeast fermentation, no settling or fining

• Partial malolactic fermentation (~20%), no bâtonnage

• Matured 9 months on full lees

• Bottled unfined and unfiltered

Critical Acclaim:

• 98 pts – James Suckling: “So pure, so precise… salinity and flinty edge give it incredible class.”

• 97 pts – Halliday Wine Companion

• 96 pts – Wine Front & Decanter

• Top 100 Wines of Australia 2024 – James Suckling