13 Jan Learning A Little More About Fiano
Although Fiano has been popular since antiquity, its recent resurgence from near extinction can be attributed to a vast number of dedicated winemakers worldwide, including Australia. Fiano, a white wine that has only recently arrived in Australia, is being hailed as the country’s next “it” white wine.
But what exactly is Fiano? How does Fiano look? And what do you serve it with? If you have any questions, we have the answers and so much more. Fiano’s famous citrus and stone fruit flavours, as well as its racy, mouth-watering acidity, can be found in a variety of styles, from light and flavourful to rich and mouth-coating.
What Is The Origin Of Fiano?
The majority of Italy’s Fiano is produced in the highlands surrounding Avellino in Campania. It is thought to have originated in ancient Rome, where it was the main variety in Apianum (Latin for “bees”), a Roman Empire wine. Because of the sweetness of their grape pulp, the Avellinese vineyards that produce Fiano grapes attract swarms of bees even today.
Where In Australia Can One Find Fiano?
Fiano is an Italian white wine that thrives in hot, dry climates, making it a suitable choice for several Australian wine regions. Since it can withstand rising temperatures and global warming, it is also a very eco-friendly varietal that uses significantly less water than most others.
Furthermore, Fiano retains its acidity even in hot weather. While Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay lose their acidity when exposed to heat, Fiano can be transformed into a perfectly balanced, refreshing wine.
One of Fiano’s appeals to Australian grape farmers is that it can be grown in a variety of climates. It thrives in hot environments such as South Australia’s Riverland, producing wines with surprising levels of freshness given their location. Furthermore, places with milder temperatures, such as the Adelaide Hills, coexist with warmer coastal areas, such as McLaren Vale, and inland regions, such as Heathcote.
Its adaptability in the winemaking process allows for a wide variety of wines, from light and refreshing to full and velvety. Due to the high concentration of phenolic compounds in grape skins, some winemakers ferment white Fiano in a manner that is more typical of red wines. The grape extract, pulp, seeds, and peels are all dissolved together to make high-quality amber wines. A few Australian winemakers have even created fragrant sparkling wines from this grape.
They suit our environment and way of living perfectly. Having a lovely, naturally high acidity, Fiano can withstand extreme heat and drought. The grapes’ thick, protective skin makes them resistant to most diseases. The resulting wine goes wonderfully with the foods we eat and the produce we grow. Seafood is a staple diet for those who live near the water, and the refined elegance of Fiano is a perfect match for these meals.
Are Fiano And Sauvignon Blanc Too Similar?
The body of a Fiano wine can be relatively light, with citrous fruit flavours predominating, or it can be heavier, with a focus on stone fruits. Some of the wines’ more robust flavours result from careful attention to the lees or a light touch from the oak barrels. If you prefer Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Gris, choose the more delicate styles, whereas those who prefer contemporary Chardonnay will enjoy the more robust options.
Which Meals Go Well With A Fiano?
Fiano’s origins in the sea-washed hills of Campania make it an ideal complement to seafood, particularly shellfish and baked fish. It is known for its vibrant citrus and stone fruit flavours and racy, mouth-watering acidity, and can range from light and refreshing to rich and mouth-coating.
Its body and structure make it an excellent addition to richer, creamier dishes like risotto, while its acidity complements tomato-based pasta sauces. The wine’s acidity complements the tang of tomato-based dishes and cuts through the thickness of cream-based sauces. To learn more about our wine cellar design and installation services, contact Signature Cellars at 1300 570 636 or through this form. Our talented team of architects and designers is here to assist if you require assistance with wine cellar design from the ground up. Our services can be customised to meet your specific needs and budget.
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