Giant Steps Sexton Vineyard Pinot Noir 2014

Located on the steep north facing slopes of the Warramate Ranges, alongside the vineyards of Yarra Yering and Coldstream Hills, the Sexton vineyard is exposed and demanding. Being on the higher slopes, topsoil is thin and root systems have established themselves in shallow gravelly loams above a tough rocky clay base. Bunch yields set naturally low in this environment, facilitating our low intervention approach to what is otherwise hand tended viticulture. Biodynamic vineyard management principles are being introduced with the purpose of further distinguishing the site and improving grape and wine quality.

The 2014 vintage was a season of mixed fortune. With a minuscule crop set following flowering. The stage was set for a concentrated, but contracted intake. Conditions through December and January were cool to warm, sunny, dry and with little wind, resulting in excellent tannins, good acid and full flavour ripeness at our preferred (lower) sugar levels. Harvest commenced in the second week of February and finished on the third week of April when the Cabernet Sauvignon was picked. A classic “two vintages in one” season where all varieties from Pinot Noir to Cabernet Sauvignon, achieved full ripeness. Fruit intakes were evenly spaced through the vintage, a rare event for us and accordingly, the reduced crop (about two thirds of our usual harvest) was accorded “white glove” treatment from vineyard to barrel. A winemakers (not an accountants) vintage. Reds all had terrific colour, ripe tannins and powerful fruit density.

95pts James Halliday

94+pts Gary Walsh

92pts Joe Czerwinski