Giant Steps Applejack Chardonnay 2023

Description

The Applejack Vineyard, established in 1997 by acclaimed viticulturist Ray Guerin and located in the cool climes of Gladysdale in the upper Yarra Valley, is renowned for its quality Pinot Noirs but is now making a name for its exceptional Chardonnays too, such as this beauty from Giant Steps. 

The 2023 vintage was marked by one of the coolest growing seasons on record, leading to a late harvest that benefited from mild temperatures and ample rainfall. This wine is crafted from handpicked grapes, whole-bunch pressed and transferred directly to French oak puncheons without settling. The wild fermentation and careful maturation for nine months in seasoned barrels result in a Chardonnay with a pristine expression of place.

On the nose, the wine offers an enticing bouquet of stone fruits, lemon rind, and a hint of grilled nuts. The palate is tightly wound and vibrant, with flavours of white peach, apple, and a subtle brininess, all balanced by piercing natural acidity.

Limited in availability, Applejack is a wine not to be missed by lovers of refined and expressive Victorian Chardonnay.

98 points

“Light bright yellow in the glass with creamy pastry, spiced nectarine and lemon aromas and flavours, the palate intense and compact, tightly focused and long… Refreshing acidity. Superb now, even better with a bit more age on it.”

– Huon Hooke (The Real Review)

96 points

“The palate is tightly coiled, steely, saline and focused. A wine with excellent potential.”

– Philip Rich (Halliday Wine Companion)

96 points

“Anything Applejack Vineyard Pinot Noir can do, Applejack Chardonnay can do just as well. This is a ripping chardonnay… There’s some dare to the acidity but it brings flavour with it; it took the risk and it turned out, the reward was worth it. This is an advanced level wine. You drink it, and you know all you need to know.”

– Campbell Mattinson (The Wine Front)