Giant Steps Wines stands as a testament to innovation and dedication in Australian winemaking. Established in 2001 by Phil Sexton, this boutique winery has quickly ascended to prominence, earning accolades for its commitment to crafting exceptional wines that reflect both the terroir of the region and the vision of its makers.
The Lengthy History of Giant Steps Wines
Giant Steps Wines owes its inception to the pioneering spirit of Phil Sexton, a respected figure in the Australian wine industry. Sexton, having already left his mark with landmark ventures like Devil's Lair in Margaret River, sought a new challenge in Victoria's cool-climate Yarra Valley. Here, he envisioned creating wines that would not only embody the unique characteristics of the region but also push the boundaries of winemaking in Australia.
The winery itself takes its name from the jazz album "Giant Steps" by John Coltrane, reflecting both Sexton's passion for music and his aspiration to create something truly exceptional. From its modest beginnings, Giant Steps has grown to encompass multiple vineyards across the Yarra Valley, each carefully selected for its distinct microclimate and soil composition.
The Vineyards: Where Quality Begins
Central to Giant Steps' success is its meticulous approach to vineyard management. The winery sources grapes from several vineyards, each contributing to the complexity and diversity of their wine portfolio. Notable sites include the Sexton Vineyard in the heart of the valley, known for its deep, rich soils perfect for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Another significant vineyard is the Tarraford Vineyard, characterized by its ancient volcanic soils, ideal for producing intense, mineral-driven wines. These vineyards, along with others like the Applejack and Wombat Creek sites, collectively offer a spectrum of flavors that define Giant Steps' varietals.
SINGLE VINEYARD RANGE
The Giant Steps Single Vineyard range is produced from the most site-expressive fruit off the best vineyards in great years. Each single vineyard wine tells a story about the vineyard, vintage and variety.
Production of these wines is very limited with some vineyards producing as little as 200 cases.
Winemaker - Melanie Chester
Melanie Chester has played a pivotal role in shaping the success and reputation of Giant Steps Wines, particularly in her capacity as Chief Winemaker. Her journey within the winery is marked by dedication, expertise, and a deep understanding of the Yarra Valley's terroir.
Joining Giant Steps Wines
Melanie Chester joined Giant Steps Wines in 2006, marking the beginning of her journey with the esteemed winery. Her appointment came at a crucial time for Giant Steps, as the winery was expanding its portfolio and gaining recognition for its commitment to producing high-quality, terroir driven wines.
Rising Through the Ranks
Chester's talent and dedication quickly became evident within the company. She initially served as Assistant Winemaker under the guidance of Steve Flamsteed, the then-Chief Winemaker. During this period, Chester honed her skills in vineyard management, grape selection, and the intricacies of winemaking processes specific to the Yarra Valley.
Appointment as Chief Winemaker
In 2016, Melanie Chester assumed the role of Chief Winemaker at Giant Steps Wines, succeeding Steve Flamsteed. Her promotion to this prestigious position was a testament to her exceptional talent, hard work, and deep understanding of the winery's philosophy. As Chief Winemaker, Chester took on the responsibility of overseeing all aspects of winemaking, from vineyard practices to cellar operations.
The Wines: A Reflection of Terroir
Giant Steps' portfolio showcases a diverse range of wines, each a reflection of its origin within the Yarra Valley. The winery is particularly celebrated for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay offerings, varietals that thrive in the valley's cool, maritime-influenced climate. These wines exhibit vibrant fruit flavors, balanced acidity, and a distinct minerality that speaks to their terroir.
In addition to their flagship Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Giant Steps produces exceptional examples of other varietals such as Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, and even a unique sparkling wine. Each wine is crafted with precision, from vineyard selection through to bottling, ensuring consistency and quality across vintages.
Awards and Accolades: Recognition on the Global Stage
Giant Steps Wines has garnered widespread acclaim both domestically and internationally, a testament to their commitment to excellence. The winery has been consistently recognized in prestigious wine competitions and by industry experts for their outstanding contributions to Australian winemaking.
Notable accolades include multiple 95+ scores from leading wine critics such as James Halliday and Huon Hooke. Their wines have also received numerous trophies and gold medals, highlighting their status as some of Australia's finest. In particular, their single vineyard releases have gained a cult following among collectors and enthusiasts alike, further cementing Giant Steps' reputation for producing wines of exceptional quality and distinction.
Looking ahead, Giant Steps Wines is poised to build upon its legacy as a pioneer in Yarra Valley winemaking. With a dedication to terroir-driven wines, an unwavering pursuit of excellence, and a vision for sustainable growth, Giant Steps continues to set the standard for Australian wines on the global stage.