Freeman Fiano 'Altura Vineyard' 2023

Produced by Freeman Vineyards in the elevated Hilltops region of New South Wales, Freeman Fiano 2023 showcases the winery's commitment to alternative European grape varieties and expressive, food-friendly wines. Founded by Dr Brian Freeman, a former Head of Wine Science at Charles Sturt University, the winery has built a reputation for crafting distinctive wines that balance texture, complexity and regional character.

Made from 100% estate-grown Fiano, this wine marks the winery's first commercial release of the ancient southern Italian variety. Originating in Campania, Fiano is believed to date back to Roman times and is prized for its aromatic profile, texture and natural freshness.

Tasting Notes

Pale straw in colour, the wine opens with lifted aromas of citrus blossom, white peach, pear and subtle floral notes. The palate is vibrant and textural, layering ripe stone fruit and citrus characters with refreshing natural acidity and a gently creamy mouthfeel. A brief maturation in both new and seasoned oak adds complexity without overshadowing the purity of fruit, resulting in a dry, elegant and beautifully balanced finish.

Winemaking

The 2023 growing season began with a cool spring before a warm, dry autumn encouraged optimal ripening. Following harvest, the fruit was crushed and cold-soaked for several days to maximise flavour and aromatic extraction before gentle pressing and fermentation in stainless steel. The wine was then matured briefly in a combination of new and older oak hogsheads to build texture and complexity prior to bottling.

Food Pairing

A perfect match for:

Grilled seafood
Fresh prawns and shellfish
Roast chicken
Mediterranean dishes
Creamy pasta
Soft cheeses
Vegetable-based cuisine