Giant Steps Applejack Chardonnay 2019

97 Points Nick Stock
96 Points Huon Hooke
96 Points Patrick Eckel

Applejack Vineyard, in the upper Yarra Valley, was planted by respected viticulturist Ray Guerin and is managed by his son Mark. 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). Applejack Vineyard is located on a dramatic slope and is close planted and fastidiously managed. The basalt based underlying volcanic soil and rock produce a characteristically fine yet extended, spicy and firm palate.

A cool start to the season was punctuated by a few solid rain events in December that resulted in very large healthy green vineyard canopies. The final stage of the growing season was warmer than average which led to accelerated ripening, but the natural acids in all the chardonnay blocks was surprisingly high. Fruit was hand sorted in both vineyard and winery. 2019 is an exceptional chardonnay vintage. 100% hand picked. Whole bunch pressed, indigenous fermentation. Indigenous fermentation in 500L French puncheons. No batonage. No malolactic fermentation. Maturation for 10 months in new and used French oak – 20% new, 80% older. New oak was Taransaud and D&J.

“Bright, light yellow colour, with a fresh, sawn timber oak and creamy lees aroma, the fruit flavour powerful and pungent in the mouth, with white peach, passionfruit and a semblance of sweetness, which is probably just the richness of the fruit talking. There’s a trace of tannin, more than balanced by the body. A delicious wine, which should go on to show more and more character with time. The powerful fruit comprehensively outguns the oak and lees characters.” – 96 Points Huon Hooke

“A youthful light yellow in the glass with the nose giving finely etched white peach, background flint and the faintest impact of oak. The palate has tension with a citrus thread to new season nectarine and peach; there is build of understated fig and almond meal on the mid palate before the finish is framed by mineral acidity and piercingly pure nectarine that is laced with white grapefruit.” – 96 Points Patrick Eckel, Wine Reviewer.

“Attractive florals and crushed stones here with lemon and grapefruit pith, as well as white peaches and subtle hazelnuts. Some floral elements, too. The palate has superb elegance, coupled with intensity, concentration and focus. Sleek and fresh, lemon-drenched finish. Excellent chardonnay. Linear.” – 97 Points Nick Stock