The Anfore Fiano is the first release of a terracotta amphorae aged Fiano for Oliver’s Taranga. Inspired by Corrina’s trip to Campania in November 2022, and the incredibly textural wines she tasted, Corrina wanted to experiment with ageing Fiano on lees for longer than current market demand has allowed. She decided to hide a tiny portion of the best batch of 2023 Fiano in two 300L TAVA terracotta Anfore (Italian for amphorae).

What inspired the Anfore Fiano?

In 2022, Corrina embarked on what became a transformative journey to the heart of Italy’s Campania region—a place where sun-drenched vineyards meet the mountains and the timeless traditions of winemaking are generations old. Corrina was lucky to be hosted by the incredible women of Le Donne Del Vino, a passionate collective of female wine producers in the region.

Campania is renowned for its ancient and unique grape varieties, many of which have been cultivated in the region for centuries. Among them, Falanghina and Fiano are two varieties that we have planted here on the Taranga vineyard. The wines from this region were nothing short of magical—complex, textured, and with a remarkable density of flavor and savoury notes.

As Corrina toured the vineyards and cellars, speaking with producers and learning from their expertise, Corrina became increasingly captivated by the Fiano aged in terracotta amphorae. This ancient technique, which dates back millennia, seemed like it may be the key to unlocking even more complexity and texture, providing a completely different style to what we are currently making. Terracotta, with its gentle oxygen penetration, allows for slow maturation, enhancing the density of flavors without imparting an influence like you would get from oak aging. Corrina was struck by how the wines aged in amphorae had a sense of balance and harmony that felt both timeless and modern.

A Vision for Our Fiano: Ageing in Amphorae

It was at this moment that the idea crystallized: to age Fiano in amphorae on lees for an extended period to elevate the texture, depth, and complexity of the wine. The goal was to create something that would showcase the natural characteristics of the grape, while also pushing the boundaries of what we could achieve with this incredible variety. Given that we already make a traditional method sparkling, and a fresh, current vintage release style from Fiano, this would be a really different expression.

Back home, it was time to put a plan into action. As luck would have it, the purchase of the Oliver & Press winery in 2023 came with three 300L TAVA terracotta amphorae from Italy—crafted by a family-run business that specializes in these ancient winemaking vessels.

There was the small problem that Fiano has always been in high demand, often outstripping supply, so Corrina made the decision to be a little sneaky and hid some of our 2023 vintage in these amphorae, eager to see how the wine would evolve over time. It was a risk, but a calculated one, knowing that the potential for a truly unique wine was worth the gamble.

The 2023 Anfore Fiano: A Super Small Batch Release

After months of patiently waiting, the time has finally come to share this exciting project with the world. We are thrilled to announce the release of our 2023 Anfore Fiano, a super small batch wine with only 800 bottles produced. This wine is the culmination of everything learned during the trip to Campania, as well as all the winemaking experience gained from working with Fiano since 2006.

The 2023 Anfore Fiano is an expression of the grape unlike anything we’ve made before. The extended ageing on lees in anfore has given the wine a remarkable texture—creamy yet structured, with a deep, almost mineral quality that complements the natural citrus and floral notes of Fiano. The gentle oxidative effect from the terracotta has added a layer of complexity, with hints of almond, honeycomb, and a touch of spice, all woven together in perfect harmony. It’s a wine that reflects both tradition and the desire to push the boundaries of what’s possible with this incredible grape.

Cheers to new beginnings, to the women who inspire us, and to the endless possibilities of what wine can be!

Cheers, Corrina, Brioni, Sam & the OT Team