Fiano Grape Explained: Italy’s Aromatic White Wine

Jan 20, 2026 | Italian Wine Basics & Guides

Fiano is one of Italy’s most expressive and aromatic white wine grapes. Known for its rich texture, floral aromas and complex flavour profile, Fiano produces elegant wines that work beautifully with food and special occasions.

If you enjoy white wines with more depth than Pinot Grigio but still plenty of freshness, Fiano is a grape you need to know. In this guide, we explore its history, taste profile, food pairings and how to choose the best bottles in the UK.

You can browse Fiano wines and all other grape varieties via our Shop by Grape hub, where wines are filtered by grape for easy discovery.

What Is Fiano?

Fiano is a white grape variety native to southern Italy, particularly the Campania region. It is most famous for producing Fiano di Avellino, one of Italy’s most prestigious white wines.

Fiano wines are known for:

  • Floral aromas
  • Stone fruit flavours
  • Honeyed notes
  • Excellent ageing potential

Unlike many Italian whites, Fiano can develop beautifully with age.

The History of Fiano

Fiano has been grown in southern Italy since Roman times. Ancient texts describe a grape called Vitis Apiana, which attracted bees due to its sweetness – believed to be an early ancestor of modern Fiano.

The grape almost disappeared in the 20th century but was revived by quality-focused producers in Campania.

Where Is Fiano Grown?

Campania – The Heartland

Fiano is most famous in:

  • Avellino
  • Irpinia

Here it produces structured, mineral-driven wines with long ageing potential.

Other Regions

Fiano is also grown in:

  • Sicily
  • Puglia
  • Australia (small quantities)

These styles tend to be riper and more fruit-forward.

How Does Fiano Taste?

Fiano offers a complex and layered flavour profile.

Typical aromas and flavours include:

  • Peach
  • Apricot
  • Honey
  • Orange blossom
  • Hazelnut
  • Mineral notes

Structure

  • Medium to full body
  • Balanced acidity
  • Dry style
  • Textured mouthfeel

Food Pairing Guide: What to Eat with Fiano

Seafood

  • Grilled scallops
  • Lobster
  • Crab pasta
  • Sea bream

White Meat

  • Roast chicken
  • Turkey
  • Pork tenderloin

Vegetarian Dishes

  • Mushroom risotto
  • Grilled courgette
  • Herb pasta

Fiano vs Other White Grapes

If you enjoy Fiano, you may also like:

  • Vermentino – fresher and lighter
  • Pinot Grigio – crisper and simpler
  • Chardonnay – richer and oak-driven

How to Choose Fiano in the UK

When buying Fiano, consider:

  • Region (Avellino = premium)
  • Vintage
  • Oak vs unoaked
  • Food pairing plans

Browse current bottles through our Shop by Grape directory to compare styles.

Price Guide

  • £10–£15: Everyday bottles
  • £15–£25: Premium examples
  • £25+: Top producers

Best Occasions for Fiano

  • Dinner parties
  • Celebrations
  • Wine tastings
  • Gifting

How to Serve Fiano

  • Temperature: 10–12°C
  • Glass: Medium white wine glass
  • No decanting needed

Internal Cluster Links

Explore more Italian grape guides:

Sangiovese Grape Guide

Nebbiolo Grape Guide

Primitivo Grape Guide

Nero d’Avola Grape Guide

Vermentino Grape Guide

Montepulciano Grape Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Fiano dry?

Yes, Fiano wines are dry.

Does Fiano age well?

Yes, premium Fiano can age for 5–10 years.

Is Fiano sweet?

No, but it has ripe fruit aromas.

Explore Fiano Wines

Visit the Shop by Grape hub to see all available Fiano wines for UK delivery.

Whether you are hosting a dinner party or buying a gift, Fiano offers elegance and complexity in every glass.