2008 GIANT STEPS ‘SEXTON VINEYARD’ HARRY’S MONSTER
AWARDED THE FOLLOWING TROPHIES AT THE
2010 INTERNATIONAL WINE CHALENGE

AUSTRALIAN RED BLEND TROPHY
YARRA VALLEY TROPHY

The world’s most prestigious and influential independent wine competition, the International Wine Challenge (IWC), unveiled the results of the 2010 Trophy and Great Value Wine Awards on Wednesday night at the Lords Nursery Pavilion.  The 2008 Giant Steps ‘Sexton Vineyard’ Harry’s Monster was awarded two trophies recognising it as the best Australian red blend and best Yarra Valley wine at the show.
 
Giant Steps Head Winemaker, Steve Flamsteed said: “This is fantastic recognition for the classic Yarra red blend.  I wish I could say we take complete credit in the winery for the trophy.... but.... the top of that hill (Sexton Vineyard) is such a fantastic site for the Cabernet family.  In 2008 the vines have really found their sweet spot.  Expect great wines to come from here on in."
 
Chris Ashton, IWC event director, said: "The IWC has once again given support to the international wine market with these respected and influential awards. Winning a Trophy gives a wine real prestige. It is a well earned recognition of the dedication and commitment that has gone into producing a top quality wine and puts the producers on the wine map of the world."
 
Giant Steps, first released in 2001, focuses exclusively on the distinctive expression of single vineyard sites in the Yarra Valley. Grapes are drawn from estate and leased vineyards, including the Sexton Vineyard and Tarraford Vineyard; as well as grapes from long-term contracted growers, supported by strong relationships and meticulous supervision throughout the year.  
 
Under winemakers Steve Flamsteed and Dave Macintosh, the wines are vinified at the specialised gravity-flow, small-batch winery. The winemaking process involves minimal intervention and is centered around the utilisation of indigenous yeasts; finely fingerprinting the personality and character of each site.
 
Giant Steps was also awarded Gold Medals for the 2008 Giant Steps Harry's Monster and 2008 Giant Steps Tarraford Vineyard Pinot Noir.