Oliver’s Taranga Vineyards Anfore Fiano 2023

Only 800 bottles are produced of this Fiano with extended lees aging in 300L terracotta anfore (amphora); unfiltered and unfined. The result? Well, this isn’t your average Fiano. There’s so much at play on the nose; it’s a drink in itself. Honeycomb and waxy notes mingle with honeysuckle, preserved lemon, honey-soaked hazelnuts, custard apple, dripping yellow peach, vanilla bean, sun-dried sea sponge, saltbush, and a lifted crushed granite mineral intensity. There’s just so much happening here. The extended lees time and increased oxygen exposure in amphorae have crafted a wine of immense creaminess, detailed and plentiful layers of texture, and a long, line of acid pulling throughout. Flavour intensity is impeccable, with fresh stone fruit notes woven amongst spice, dried herbs, salty wax and a lively minerality. Length is fantastic, and if we’ve been waiting for proof that Fiano can achieve complexity and intensity beyond its joyful, drink-now iterations, then look no further. Drink now to 2030 (though I look forward to seeing how this ages further).

Captain Winepilot

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