I am becoming besotted with this variety. It has a cool minerality, multi-faceted complexion and a tight structure. I have been mightily impressed with some local ones, where the climate is well suited to the variety.
It all started when i attended a dinner a couple of years ago with my golfing group and was handed the wine list. A dozen in attendance who wanted something wet and satisfying, so I plumped for a Pondalowie 'Pinga Fiano’ from Central Victoria. It was a revelation and we subsequently polished off 8 bottles rendering the restaurant fully depleted. It was laced with hay and lantana notes.
I have consumed a fair bit of Sam Scott’s 2015 ‘La Prova’ Fiano from the Adelaide Hills of late. Cooler climate, leaner, taut, structured more like Muscadet with an extra level of richness. Also been very impressed with the 2015 Olivers ‘Taranga’ Fiano from McLaren Vale where the warm climate does the variety no harm.
And now one from the home of Fiano, which was sublime and really quite cheap.
2013 Feudi Di San Gregorio Fiano di Avellino (Campania)
Wow, a richer colour, shedding the green hues of youth. Straw, white flowers, a hint of camomile tea. The palate has richness and vibrancy, a good smattering of mineral. No hard edges, mouth coating. Scrumptious.
To me Fiano has everything to offer to be the next big variety. It is easy to say and easy to drink, and matches to a wide variety of foods. Couple that with the ability to handle the heat and I think you will be hearing more about the variety and hopefully see plenty with an Australian label.
I opened a couple of bottles of this a few weeks ago while on vacation with my family. I just texted this to my sisters, who both loved the wine. I picked up a case today and they’ll both secure theirs by the end of the weekend. There appears to be a fair amount of stock but that’s a crazy good price for this wine.
Fell in love with Fiano after having it poured as part of the pairing at Acquerello in SF a few years ago. Been drinking it since, though I do not own much, perhaps a bottle or two. Lucky to have a great store near by with 4 or 5 different producers so I buy and drink Fiano as I feel inspired. I prefer the fruitier, riper versions of this grape and have always thought that a more “modern” or “international” style would be interesting. Today, I got my wish. In San Luis Obispo for a soccer tournament and stopped at Villa Creek (the restaurant) on my way thru Paso to grab a 2014 Villa Creek Luna Matta Vineyard Fiano. Had to have one after reading that they had recently released the 2014 version of this wine, their second, as 2013 was the first vintage of this wine. Had it with lunch at Giuseppe’s and it was fantastic. Electric, zingy acidity around a core of lemon curd and Granny Smith apple pie with a generous mouth feel and long tangy finish. I would buy a box of these if not for the steep price tag ($52) but I’ll definitely buy a few on my way home to have in the cellar. Cool stuff!