2020 Giant Steps Tarraford Yarra Valley Chardonnay
Tasting:
The 2020 Giant Steps Tarraford Yarra Valley Chardonnay is a refined expression of Yarra Valley’s cool-climate viticulture. In the glass, it displays a luminous pale straw color with a hint of green, indicating its youth and vibrancy.
On the nose, this Chardonnay offers a complex and inviting bouquet. Initial aromas of lemon zest and lime are complemented by stone fruits like white peach and nectarine. As the wine opens, floral notes of jasmine and orange blossom emerge, alongside a subtle minerality reminiscent of wet stones and flint. The oak influence is skillfully integrated, adding nuances of toasted almond, vanilla, and a hint of smoky flint, enhancing the aromatic complexity.
The palate is precise and elegantly balanced, with bright acidity and concentrated fruit flavors. Crisp green apple, pear, and citrus dominate, followed by layers of ripe peach and melon. The mid-palate reveals a creamy texture, a result of lees stirring and partial malolactic fermentation, adding richness and depth. The oak is well-integrated, providing subtle notes of vanilla, almond, and a delicate toastiness that complement the fruit profile without overpowering it.
The finish is long and clean, with a persistent minerality and a touch of saline, characteristic of the Yarra Valley terroir. The 2020 Giant Steps Tarraford Chardonnay is a sophisticated and complex wine, exuding finesse and elegance. It pairs excellently with seafood, creamy poultry dishes, and light pastas, or can be savored on its own as a stylish aperitif.
Vintage: 2020
$70
Availability: 6 in stock