While Chardonnay has been a household favourite in Australia for decades, Brown Brothers fourth generation family member and winemaker, Katherine Brown, predicts that a refreshing and citrus white wine variety will take centre stage over the coming years: Fiano.
Katherine explains that Brown Brothers has noticed an emerging trend amongst consumers, particularly younger generations, who are moving away from familiar drops including Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.
Instead, consumers are beginning to explore niche and interesting white wine varieties and Katherine believes Fiano could be the wine to satisfy this curiosity.
Reminiscent of a salty sea breeze with notes of zesty pineapple, passionfruit and lime, Fiano is the perfect mix between being light and fresh, while simultaneously bursting with flavour - which is why Katherine believes it could become Australia’s new favourite white wine.
Recent wine industry statistics support Katherine’s insights, with Chardonnay consumption in Australia down by 6% as the search begins for an exciting alternative to add to the dinner table.
"In addition to being more adventurous with their wine choices, younger generations are also more mindful of their alcohol consumption than generations before. As a result, we’re seeing new and exciting grape varieties add excitement to the Australian wine scene and consumers are happy to spend a bit more money on a quality wine to experiment, but less often,” she says.
"Fiano is one of my favourites to recommend to any newcomer to wine, because of its versatility to be enjoyed with or without food. Paired best with light seafood dishes and creamy pastas, or enjoyed alone, Fiano’s depth and adaptability make it an exciting wine to try for those looking for a lesser-known white wine variety to add to their list.
"Brown Brothers Origins Series Fiano is a great white wine for young people. It’s a quality drop that’s fun and exciting and won’t break the bank. Making wines accessible and enticing to younger consumers who need to consider budget is important for us, but Fiano is a wine of excellent quality too.”
In addition to seeing more Fiano in the market, Katherine adds that the selection of wine varieties on the shelves will look considerably different in the coming years, with lesser-known varieties such as Tempranillo, Tarrango and Albarino set to become more popular due to the growing threat of climate change.
Brown Brothers is a step ahead of this shift, taking the time to develop and produce high-quality, warm-climate wines.
"Some of our favourite wine varieties like Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, do tend to thrive in cooler climates. As the climate continues to warm, the growing of Fiano grapes will likely increase because of how well-suited the variety is to heated conditions.
"As leaders in wine innovation, Brown Brothers is dedicated to being at the forefront of what’s new and trending in the world of wine. Whether it's having a quiet drink on a summer afternoon with friends, or a sophisticated dinner party, our delicious Fiano has you covered.”
Brown Brothers Origins Series Fiano 2022 is available for purchase online and at leading liquor retailers nationally. For more information head to the brownbrothers.com.au.
