Giant Steps Applejack Vineyard Chardonnay 2023

• Producer: Giant Steps
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Region: Yarra Valley
• Alcohol: 12.5%
• Net volume: 750ml
• Vintage: 2023
• Cellar until 2030

Location: Gladysdale Planted: 1997 Elevation: 220-320 metres Soil type: Grey clay loam over black (basalt) volcanic base Aspect: East facing slopes Size: 12.5 hectares Applejack Vineyard is a special site, located on a dramatic slope in the upper Yarra Valley and is closely planted and fastidiously managed. It was planted by respected viticulturist Ray Guerin in 1997. The basalt based underlying volcanic soil and rock produce a characteristically fine yet extended, spicy and firm palate. The higher altitude results in a cooler and extended growing season, ideally suited to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay (3-4 weeks later than central Yarra Valley). Chardonnay from Applejack requires lots of attention to detail in the vineyard, with focus put on crop loads and fruit exposure to ensure even ripeness and acid levels.

Winemaking
100% hand picked and whole bunch pressed. The juice was then transferred directly to barrel by gravity with no settling, taking full gross lees. Wild fermented in 500L French oak puncheons. No bâtonnage. Maturation for 10 months in new and used French oak – 15% new, 85% older, Mercurey, Taransaud and Dargaud & Jaeglé.

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