
Ciro Picariello Fiano di Avellino DOCG 2023
Ciro Picariello
Ciro Picariello's Fiano is one of southern Italy's most compelling white wines — volcanic soil, old vines, and zero shortcuts. The 2023 is electric and precise, with the kind of mineral depth that makes you reconsider what Campanian whites can achieve. This is a wine that tastes like the rough, beautiful terrain it comes from.
Nose
Ripe white peach and crushed hazelnut open the nose with striking purity. A floral note — subtle, almost like chamomile — rides over a bed of wet stone minerality. Green apple and a hint of honey add complexity without excess sweetness.
Palate
Taut and focused, with bright citrus acidity driving a core of orchard fruit. The volcanic soils of Irpinia show up as a smoky, mineral undertow that gives the wine serious grip. Marzipan and a subtle nuttiness emerge on the mid-palate. Textured without being heavy.
Finish
Persistent and clean, with lingering citrus peel, mineral salinity, and a bitter almond note that begs another sip.
- Varietal
- Fiano
- Blend
- 100% Fiano
- Vineyards
- Summonte, Irpinia (550m elevation, volcanic soils)
- Alcohol
- 13%
- Organic / Biodynamic
- No
- Skin Contact
- No
Food Pairing
Fried zucchini blossoms stuffed with ricotta
From high-altitude vineyards on the volcanic soils of Summonte in Irpinia, Ciro Picariello farms Fiano vines over 30 years old, vinifying entirely in stainless steel to preserve the grape's raw mineral voice.
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