BACKGROUND

We purchased a nearby vineyard on Moritz Road in Blewitt Springs a few years ago, about 1km from Woodstock. It has slightly higher elevation, sandier soil and southeast facing aspect, providing a unique point of difference to our Woodstock vineyards which are generally Northwest facing. There was an old quince orchard next to the old vine shiraz on the property. We decided to pull the quinces out and plant our first block of Fiano in 2022. The drought resistant and late ripening nature of Fiano suits the McLaren Vale climate and deep sandy soils of Blewitt springs. A mighty Fig tree stands triumphantly over the Fiano vineyard, showcasing the Mediterranean nature of this region.

WINEMAKING

Picking decisions dictate the amount of natural acid freshness or ripe skin texture in the wine. We pick for a balance of flavour ripeness and natural acidity. In the winery, we like to ferment in a mixture of stainless steel and seasoned French oak. The stainless portion allows the wine to retain freshness and vibrancy while the oak portion will increase the contact with yeast lees, building texture and aromatic complexity. Blending the oak portion and stainless-steel portion to a level of balance is finessed in the lab.

Vegan Friendly

TASTING NOTES

This McLaren Vale Fiano opens with vibrant aromas of ripe stone fruit, passionfruit, and a bright burst of lemon citrus zest. On the palate, the wine delivers generous fruit weight, balancing fresh tropical flavours with a lively acidity. The finish is crisp and refreshing, with a delicate texture that adds depth and complexity. While enjoyable now, this Fiano has great aging potential, cellar for up to 5 years.

REVIEWS

92 points The Vintage Journal 2026 SA Wine Guide
“Lime skin, papaya and honeydew melon. This is the breakfast buffet of fruits from your island getaway. Throw in a touch of dry sand and the coconut oil baked into sun chairs. This wine will whisk you away to holiday times. Fiano can be many shapes; what I love about this is that the palate is quite linear and lithe. Its fresh acidity keeps you wanting more whilst its crème fraîche creaminess adds detail. A nice dry but tropical fruit finish, a bit like the satisfaction after licking down a frosty fruit. It’s far too easy to drink, and for under $30, it’s made for buying, time and time again. Great stuff.”

91 points James Suckling
“Aromas of lemon blossoms, white peaches, quince, fennel and almonds with a saline edge. The palate is mid-weighted with a rounded texture and bright acidity, showing flavors of pear skin, citrus, spices and crushed stones. Balanced and textural, with a clean finish. Drink now.”

Moritz Fiano 2025