2022 Giant Steps Chardonnay

Fermented and matured in 500 litre French oak puncheons (15%) new with around 10% going through malolactic fermentation. Brilliant pale straw colour with a subtle glimmer of green around the edges and a watery hue. Sailing out of the glass are aromas of white peach, nectarine and dried honey followed by some cashew, biscuity nougat and spice notes. Refined and mid weighted yet showing good intensity the palate is layered with fleshy white peach and nectarine fruits. Dried honey, biscuity nougat and traces of gun flint linger underneath. Long, gently creamed finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 12.5%

Other Reviews.....
An even split of upper and lower Yarra fruit. Whole-bunched pressed and wild fermented in 15% new French puncheons. Around 5% mlf. A light, bright green gold. Pure fruited with an attractive nose of just ripened orchard and stone fruits, pink grapefruit and orange blossom. A hint of matchstick and just-baked ginger snaps. Concentrated and lithe at the same time, Giant Step's calling card is just as good, if not better than the super 2021 release. Drink by 2027.
95 points
Philip Rich - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion