2023 Giant Steps Yarra Valley Chardonnay
A Yarra Valley Gem from One of Australia's Most Dynamic Cool-Climate Estates
My Wine Man on Giant Steps. Giant Steps is one of the Yarra Valley's most dynamic and respected wine producers — founded in 1997 by Phil Sexton, with a clear vision for what cool-climate Yarra Valley Chardonnay and Pinot Noir could achieve. The estate farms multiple vineyards across both the upper and lower Yarra Valley, blending fruit from different elevations and aspects to create wines of genuine complexity and regional character. The 2023 vintage reflects a season of excellent natural balance — warm days and cool nights preserving the freshness and precision that defines Giant Steps' house style.
Tasting Notes
Bright pale gold in the glass, with an inviting nose of white peach, nectarine, and pink grapefruit, lifted by a subtle creamy thread and gentle citrus zest. The palate is generous yet focused — stone fruit at the core, with fresh well-integrated acidity and a clean, lingering finish. An even split of upper and lower Yarra fruit gives the wine a layered complexity that belies its approachability, with just enough texture to reward a short stint in the cellar.
Style & Drinking Window
Medium-bodied with a silky, approachable texture and bright natural acidity. Drinking beautifully now through 2027–2028. No decanting required — simply chill to 10–12°C and enjoy.
Food Pairing
The stone fruit generosity and perfectly balanced acidity of the 2023 Giant Steps Yarra Valley Chardonnay make it a superb match for Bare Bird Premium Free-Range Whole Boneless Butterflied Chicken from My Meat Man. The wine's creamy texture and fresh Yarra Valley acidity complement the clean, flavourful character of free-range chicken beautifully — whether roasted with tarragon and white wine, spatchcocked and grilled over charcoal, or served alongside a light cream and mushroom sauce.
Why This Is a Smart Buy
At HK$239, the 2023 Giant Steps Yarra Valley Chardonnay delivers cool-climate Chardonnay from one of the Yarra Valley's most respected producers at an outstanding everyday premium price point. Genuine regional character, immediate drinkability, and the hallmark Giant Steps balance of richness and freshness — all in one bottle.
Looking for a Different Style?
- 2023 Coldstream Hills Chardonnay — more restrained, linear Yarra Valley Chardonnay
- 2023 Shaw + Smith M3 Chardonnay — more structured Adelaide Hills Chardonnay with mineral precision
- 2024 Craggy Range Kidnappers Chardonnay — elegant Hawke's Bay with limestone mineral precision
