This 20ha vineyard was planted on red clay loam soil at Woori Yallock in 2001 by Lou Primavera, with whom Giant Steps has a long-standing grape-supply relationship. Pinot Noir (114, MV6 and G8V3 clones) grown here on the north and north east facing slopes at 230m is noted for its complex structure and pronounced perfume. The 114 and MV6 are fermented as whole bunches in open vats, while the G8V3 is destemmed, given a long cold-soak and fermented separately to enhance its aromatic contribution. All ferments use indigenous yeasts and the whole-bunch components are periodically foot-stomped to release additional juice. The wines are pressed to 228 litre, French barriques (about 8% new) for 11 months before blending and bottling without fining or filtration.

Eden Rift Reserve Pinot Noir The Reserve Pinot Noir represents the winemaker’s hand-picked selection of Eden Rift estate’s ten standout barrels. The palate expresses dark fruits, earthy notes, cherry liqueur, chocolate and mineral notes. Layered flavours of bright blackberries, orange, and subtle tannin are framed with delicate underbrush notes and toasted wood.

From vines yielding less than 1 tonne/acre, 100% whole bunch, natural yeast ferment, 100% new oak. A powerful and structural Pinot Noir by Lethbridge. An unusual presentation of the MV6 clone in the Estate vineyard produces fruit of great density of flavour, and very low yield (0.5 tonnes/acre). This wine was fermented with 100% whole bunch inclusion and had pre-fermentation maceration for 7-10 days. Wild yeast fermentation in small open vats proceeded with daily pigéage. Pressing was straight to barrel (100% new French oak) to allow for gross lees contact and natural MLF.

Giant Steps is a complex Pinot Noir with terrific varietal character. The nose shows rose petal, dark cherry and tomato leaf aromas and the palate is fleshy but tight, with savoury, dusty notes and silky tannins.

2014 is the inaugural release of Colleens Paddock Pinot Noir. It features a restrained, brooding and beguiling nose with hints of cranberry, sour cherry, wild raspberry, earth, stalks and charry oak. The aristocratic palate weaves an uncommon melange of toffee fruits, herbal flavours and savoury elements through fine, integrated tannins and delivers an elegant, luscious, velvety mouth feel. It combines lightness with richness and density with great length and persistence of flavour.

DOMAINE MICHELE & PATRICE RION Vielles Vignes, Chambolle-Musigny

Many class Ata Rangi as the quintessential 'New World' Pinot Noir, the best example of the variety outside of Burgundy. It's hard to argue when you let the supple, dark berry and spiced fruit pass your lips. Considered 'Grand Cru' in New Zealand, Ata Rangi was awarded the inaugural Tipuranga Teitei o Aotearoa classification, cementing its pedigree.

Although this Pinot noir's deep purple colour is not necessarily an indication of quality, its intensity is a magnificent and seductive feature. The usual Dry River aromas of Christmas spice, pipe tobacco and plum are all in attendance. Initially this wine seems savoury, dark and brooding but elegant red berry and raspberry characters are not to be missed. This tension between dark and light, spice and fruit, opulence and restraint is a result of the blend of the three vineyards, Dry River, Craighall and Lovat with all three contributing their specific vineyard characteristics to the final wine. The juicy, sappy and dense fruit fills out the palate providing a full and fleshy mouth-feel. The acidity provides focus and a thoroughfare for the wine towards the back with a dapple of oak influence for support and additional complexity. While transparent tannins are no hindrance to the front palate, the soft nature of this wine is not to be misjudged.