2024 Villa Mottura Fiano Salento I.G.P., Puglia

From the sun drenched plains of Salento in Puglia, Villa Mottura Fiano brings a southern Italian warmth to this increasingly loved Mediterranean white variety. The Mottura family has long championed regional grapes, crafting wines that reflect both place and tradition while keeping a focus on drinkability and character. In the heel of Italy, abundant sunshine and cooling coastal influences allow Fiano to develop generous flavour while holding onto freshness and a lightly savoury edge.

A pale straw gold with bright highlights shimmers in the glass. Aromas open with ripe pear, yellow apple and citrus zest layered with white flowers, almond and a gentle herbal note. There is an inviting softness here, sun kissed yet balanced.

The palate is medium bodied and rounded, delivering orchard fruit and citrus flavours framed by fresh acidity and a subtle textural grip. Notes of hazelnut, lemon peel and a faint saline character build through the mid palate, leading to a smooth, easy going finish that feels both generous and refreshing. Best enjoyed over the next three to five years while its bright fruit and soft savoury detail remain in harmony.

Grilled prawns with garlic and chilli oil, burrata with olive oil and crusty bread, or zucchini fritters piled high with herbs and yoghurt. A spin of Nu Genea or something laid back from Khruangbin, maybe even a touch of Vivaldi slipping in as the evening cools, the wine bringing that relaxed southern Italian rhythm to the table.