Griilo grapes at Tenuta Whitaker / Photo by Salvo Mancuso
Some of Italy’s most fascinating white wines are made in Campania, in the country’s south, and on two main islands, Sardinia and Sicily. There, millennia-old native grapes dominate. Scrupulous vineyard management and modern vinification methods yield inimitable, savory white wines loaded with personality.
Discover southern Italy’s best whites made with indigenous grapes.
Fiano grapes at Villa Raiano / Photo courtesy of Villa Raiano
Fiano
Fiano is most associated with Campania, where it’s widely grown. Native to the region, the grape produces structured whites that range from medium- to full-bodied and have beeswax and floral aromas. Their rich orchard fruit flavors are often accented with compelling, smoky mineral sensations, honey, aromatic herb and hazelnut. The best have great energy as well as intriguing complexity. To maintain freshness and aromas, Fiano producers most often vinify in steel tanks.