Winemaker Melanie Chester says it best:
"Where the Single Vineyard wines are the pure tones of each vineyard, Circle of Fifths is the chord."
2024 Giant Steps Circle of Fifths Pinot Noir | Yarra Valley
Is it too early to start making my annual "this will probably age terribly" prediction for Wine Spectator's Wine of the Year?
Probably.
Am I going to do it anyway? Absolutely.
My pick is the 2024 Giant Steps Circle of Fifths Pinot Noir from Australia's Yarra Valley.
Now, before anyone tells me there's no chance, I get it. Giant Steps only made about 2,600 cases, and just 475 cases made it to the U.S. That kind of limited production usually keeps a wine from taking the top prize.
But a spot in the Top 10? I wouldn't bet against it.
Think about it—a 96-point Pinot Noir for under $50. That's the kind of value that wine lovers spend years looking for.
What makes Circle of Fifths so special is that it isn't a single-vineyard wine. Instead, it's a blend of fruit from all six of Giant Steps' acclaimed Yarra Valley vineyards. Each site brings something different to the table, and together they create a wine that's greater than the sum of its parts.
Winemaker Melanie Chester says it best:
"Where the Single Vineyard wines are the pure tones of each vineyard, Circle of Fifths is the chord."
That's a beautiful way to describe it. The wine has all the bright red fruit, spice, energy, and silky texture you'd expect from world-class Pinot Noir, but with a completeness that only comes from blending exceptional vineyards together.
Whether Wine Spectator proves me right or makes me eat my words this fall, one thing is certain: this is one of the best Pinot Noir values I've tasted all year.
And if you're thinking about trying it, don't wait too long. We're down to about 40 bottles, and I have a feeling they won't be around for much longer.