Fiano
Definition - What does Fiano mean?
Fiano is a white grape mainly grown in the southern region of Campania in Italy. It is known for having low yields and its small berries which produce little juice. It thrives in volcanic soils in the Apennine Mountains where it is also influenced by its terroir. It is historically called Vitis apiana (Apiana is Latin for "bees".), as when it matures, it develops a sweetness which attracts bees.
WineFrog explains Fiano
The Fiano grape has been grown in the south of Italy for hundreds of years. In the region of Campania, there is a Denominazione di origine controllata e Garantita (DOCG) Avellino where the grape develops a strong flavor with spicy and nutty notes.
As the grape when mature is small and thick-skinned with little juice, many winemakers saw no value in further cultivating the grape during the 19th and 20th centuries. It was then that Trebbiano became more popular with winemakers in Italy. However, with more modern winemaking practices, Fiano is again becoming more popular. It can today also be found in Sicily, South Australia and Mendoza, Argentina.
