Fiano Day Date in the current year: October 17, 2025

Fiano is a white wine grape variety that is native to southern Italy. In Italy, it is primarily grown in the Campania region and on the island of Sicily. Outside of Italy, Australia has the most Fiano plantings, with over 70 wineries producing Fiano wines, primarily in the McLaren Vale and Hunter Valley regions of South Australia and New South Wales, respectively. Some winemakers in Argentina also grow the grape. This is an ancient grape variety first mentioned in the 13th century, though it probably dates back to ancient Rome.

Fiano isn’t a very popular grape variety because its small, thick-skinned berries contain little juice, and its yields are relatively low, making it unprofitable to grow. However, Fiano has enjoyed a surge in popularity in recent years, thanks to new winemaking techniques and equipment, as well as a renewed interest in classic and indigenous grape varieties.

Fiano wines are noted for their intense aromas, robust flavors, and good aging potential. Their primary notes typically include pear, apple, honey, peach, nuts (hazelnut, pine nut, cashew), fresh herbs (Kaffir lime, basil), and floral tones such as acacia, elderflower, and honeysuckle. Depending on the level of ripeness and the winemaking style, Fiano can also exhibit notes of tropical fruits, such as pineapple or mango, as well as light spiciness, smokiness, or nuttiness, especially in versions aged on lees or in oak.

Fiano wines pair well with foods that complement their aromatic richness, medium body, and balanced acidity. They pair particularly well with seafood dishes, such as grilled fish, seared scallops, oysters, shrimp, and octopus. They also pair well with white meats, such as roasted chicken or turkey, pork with herbs or citrus, and risotto, especially with mushrooms or shellfish.

Due to their nutty and honeyed undertones, Fiano wines also pair well with aged cheeses, such as pecorino or Parmigiano-Reggiano, and Mediterranean dishes featuring olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs. These dishes include pasta with thick tomato-based or creamy sauces. Fuller-bodied Fiano wines can pair well with lightly spiced or smoked foods. Some Fiano wines pair surprisingly well with Thai, Indian, and Mexican food.

Fiano Day was launched in 2025 by Oliver’s Taranga, a family-owned vineyard in Australia’s McLaren Vale wine region. Their winemaker, Corrina Wright, has been dubbed the Queen of Fiano because she has grown this grape variety for over two decades and is renowned for her passion and skill in making Fiano wines.

The best way to celebrate the holiday is to buy a bottle of Fiano and share it with someone you love. You can also attend a wine tasting, vineyard tour, or wine and food pairing class to learn more about these amazing wines. Don’t forget to spread the word about the holiday on social media using the hashtag #FianoDay!