The 2025 Giant Steps Bastard Hill Vineyard Chardonnay is an exceptional single-vineyard Chardonnay from the steep, elevated slopes of Gladysdale in the Upper Yarra Valley. This cool site and its red volcanic soils produce a detailed bouquet of crushed rock, nashi pear, white peach and ruby grapefruit, layered with orange blossom, wild honey, chamomile and a subtle struck-flint character.
On the palate, it is concentrated yet tightly controlled, with white stone fruit, citrus oil and almond supported by fine acidity and a persistent saline mineral line. Restrained oak contributes gentle texture without obscuring the fruit, while chalk, grapefruit and cool stone carry the exceptionally long, precise finish.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is one of the most complete and cellar-worthy Chardonnays yet produced from Bastard Hill. Serve at 10–12°C and allow 20–30 minutes in the glass or decanter when young. Enjoy now for its energy and intensity, or cellar from 2028 through approximately 2042. Ideal with scallops, coral trout, Moreton Bay bugs, grilled lobster, chicken with morels or tempura vegetables.
