Origins and Global Presence of Fiano and Falanghina
Fiano: Ancient Origins and Modern ReachFiano’s story begins in the sun-soaked hills of Southern Italy, where it has been cherished for centuries. Its roots stretch back to the days of the ancient Greeks and Romans, who valued the grape for its aromatic intensity and the honeyed wines it produced. Over time, Fiano became a staple in the vineyards of Campania, surviving near extinction before a passionate revival in the 20th century. Today, the grape is celebrated in the Fiano di Avellino DOCG, where it expresses the unique character of its native soils.While Campania remains Fiano’s spiritual home, the grape has found success in other Italian regions such as Sicily, Puglia, and Basilicata, each offering its own twist on Fiano’s classic style. Its ability to thrive in warm climates has also led to new plantings in Australia, where it is valued for its freshness and resilience. Small but growing pockets of Fiano can now be found in the United States and Argentina, making it a grape to watch as winemakers seek varieties that can handle rising temperatures around the world.Falanghina: From Ancient Rome to Today’s GlassFalanghina’s journey is just as storied, with origins that may date back to the earliest days of winemaking in Southern Italy. Thought to have been brought by Greek settlers, the grape’s name hints at the wooden stakes used in Roman vineyards. Once linked to the legendary Falernian wines of ancient Rome, Falanghina managed to endure through the centuries, quietly persisting in the hillsides of Campania until its recent rediscovery.Today, Falanghina is almost entirely associated with Campania, where it has become a symbol of the region’s winemaking renaissance. Though a few vines can be found in neighboring Italian regions, and some adventurous growers have introduced it to the United States, its international presence remains limited. Still, Falanghina’s lively character and deep heritage continue to attract attention from wine lovers and producers eager to explore Italy’s native grapes.