Giant Steps
Founded in 1997 by wine visionary Phil Sexton, Giant Steps is a benchmark producer in the Yarra Valley, renowned for its uncompromising focus on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Named after the iconic John Coltrane album, the winery embodies a spirit of exploration and precision—crafting wines that are as expressive as they are elegant.
The estate’s philosophy is rooted in single-vineyard expression. With sites spanning the Upper and Lower Yarra—including Applejack, Sexton, Primavera, Tarraford, Wombat Creek, and Bastard Hill—each wine is a study in terroir, capturing the nuance of soil, slope, and microclimate. These vineyards are farmed sustainably, and the winemaking is minimalist: wild ferments, gravity flow, and gentle oak handling to preserve purity and site character.
Under the guidance of Head Winemaker Melanie Chester, Giant Steps continues to push boundaries while maintaining its hallmark finesse. The wines consistently earn critical acclaim, with multiple 95–98 point scores from Halliday Wine Companion and Real Review. Standouts include the Primavera Pinot Noir, Tarraford Chardonnay, and Applejack Vineyard Pinot Noir—each a masterclass in cool-climate winemaking.
The Tasting Room in Healesville offers a modern, immersive experience just one hour from Melbourne. Open daily, it features curated flights like the Yarra Valley Tasting and the Signature Single Vineyard Experience, allowing guests to explore the region’s diversity in a relaxed, educational setting. Light snacks and seasonal grazing options complement the wines, and bookings are recommended for deeper tastings.
Giant Steps is also a favourite among collectors and sommeliers, with national distribution and a strong export presence. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or a curious newcomer, Giant Steps offers a journey through the Yarra Valley’s most expressive vineyard sites—one glass at a time.
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