The vineyards of Contrada are located in the village of Candida in the heart of the Fiano di Avellino DOCG. The family started their estate only in 2003 — prior, they sold their grapes in bulk. Under the leadership of Gerardo Contrada — one of nine children — the family is well known for their dedicated work with native Campania grape varietals, as well as Gerardo's superb winemaking skills in the cellar: he already has a Tre Bicchieri award for the Selvecorte Fiano. The Contrada vineyards are farmed with extreme attention to detail in a style that minimizes any environmental impact. The vines are located at an altitude of 1600 feet above sea level on calcareous soils, which help to impart a zesty freshness and mineral profile to their Fiano.

The Contrada Fiano di Avellino is fermented in stainless steel to retain the grapes beautiful freshness and aromatics. In the glass, the wine displays a gorgeous light gold color with brilliant lemon highlights. Soaring aromas of honeycomb, fresh apricot, pear, almonds and white flowers enticingly plume from the glass intermingled with a chalky minerality. The palate is rich, textured and incredibly complex displaying notes of clementine, quince, hazelnut, and green almonds with an impeccably balanced, zesty energy that leads into a flinty mineral finish. This is an impressive wine that you can drink now, though it has the structure and concentration to age for another 5 years. Enjoy with a plate of frittura (fried shrimp and calamari), risotta alla pescatora or spaghetti con vongole, seafood specialities of Campania. However, if you're not in the mood for Italian, try Contrada's Fiano with grilled seabass, glazed salmon or veal schnitzel.